Considering zeal, are we to be zealous when we cast out the wicked among us? Are we to be zealous when we point out the slackers among us? Are we to be zealous when we crusade against immorality in the land? I personally think such responses lead to hypocrisy and foster an unhealthy attitude of spiritual arrogance that examines others but not the self. Yet, we are to be zealous and not lag in zeal, but once you find out that in which we are to be zealous, you will know that it is easy to fail because it does not always come naturally (Romans 12:9-21). These verses are worth reading because they display that Paul was informed by the teachings of Jesus from the Sermon on the Mount.

The highlights that I chose from the Scripture Readings are these: “Let love be genuine; hate what is evil, hold fast to what is good. Extend hospitality to immigrants. Bless those who persecute you and do not curse them. Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Do not be overcome by evil but overcome evil with good. ” By being zealous in these things we show our nonconformity with this age, this world. Although it is only God who ultimately defeats evil with good – as shown in the resurrection of Jesus Christ, we are urged to do as God does in response to evil – “overcome evil with good.”