Greet One Another
Romans 16:1-7, 15-16
"Greet one another with a holy kiss." - Romans 16:16
In Japan, on many roads leading to schools, there are signs that remind students, "Greetings are the foundation of our social life." Sometimes I think signs like these would be helpful to children, parents, and others in nations everywhere.
Have you ever noticed how Paul's letters usually begin and end with warm greetings? Romans 1:7 says, "To all in Rome who are loved by God and called to be his holy people: Grace and peace to you from God our Father and from the Lord Jesus Christ." And today's verse offers general advice: "Greet one another with a holy kiss." Paul encourages his readers with love and concern.
Louis Armstrong in his classic song "What A Wonderful World" says, "I see friends shaking hands, saying, 'How do you do?'/They're really saying, 'I love you.'" How true! And did you know that the common farewell in English, "Good-bye," began many, many years ago as "God be with you"?
A smile with a sparkle in your eye tells a person, even before you open your mouth, that you are glad to see them. How much better than a dead look and no greeting at all!
In our culture, even if we do not greet people with "a holy kiss," a friendly greeting and a smile go a long way to making someone's day.
Have you blessed someone that way today?
Prayer
O God, we love you because you first loved us. Thank you that the circle of your love ripples outward in goodwill to all whom we greet in love. In Jesus' name, Amen.