Romans 3:28
For we consider that a person is justified by faith apart from works of the law.
When you start a new job, usually you want to put your best foot forward, doing all you can to prove your worth. You need to prove to the boss that you are worthy of their selection of you and of their investment in you. You work hard and do whatever it takes, hopefully without hurting others, to be a good employee, a team player. Looking at this effort even closer, do you do the work because you believe in the company and want it to succeed? Do you do it to make yourself look good in the eyes of others? Maybe you do it purely because it's the right thing to do as a company or personal steward of your time, talent and treasure.
In todays reading from Paul's letter to the Romans, he begins by talking about the law and God's love for all of us. Then later in this passage he gets into a discussion about works. Do you volunteer at the church, food pantry, prison or hospital to earn yourself a spot in Heaven? How about helping a neighbor, a stranger, donating food or money? Will that earn yourself a spot with God? No. It is only through God's grace and love that this is attained. However there is an important distinction. You should do the work as a reflection of God's love for all and not for your reward. God will recognize that work, as will others, but it should only be a reflection of the act of love of God. Our faith should express itself in good works. So good deeds as an expression of our faith are what we are looking for, not deeds that are meant to earn or merit salvation. Do everything for the greater Glory of God!!!
