Universal Utterings

for December 21, 2025

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12-21-2025 Romans 1 v0107 Received the Grace of Apostleship

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The Letter to the Romans Chapter One Verse 1 Thru 7

1 Paul, a slave of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle and set apart for the gospel of God, 2 which he promised previously through his prophets in the holy scriptures, 3 the gospel about his Son, descended from David according to the flesh, 4 but established as Son of God in power according to the spirit of holiness through resurrection from the dead, Jesus Christ our Lord. 5 Through him we have received the grace of apostleship, to bring about the obedience of faith, for the sake of his name, among all the Gentiles, 6 among whom are you also, who are called to belong to Jesus Christ; 7 to all the beloved of God in Rome, called to be holy. Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

In the dim confines of his prison cell, James had spent nearly three decades behind bars. Convicted of a crime he regretted, the weight of his past haunted him. Yet, amid the harsh reality of incarceration, he found his only source of freedom: the Word of God. Romans 1:1-7 became his lifeline, revealing a profound truth that resonated deep within his heart.

"Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle…" James read aloud, letting each word sink in. He saw himself in Paul's shoes, a servant chosen for a purpose. Each day, he pondered the calling God placed upon his life. Despite his physical imprisonment, he realized that he was free in Christ, chaining himself not to despair but to hope and purpose.

The imagery of grace spoke volumes. Understanding that his true identity did not hinge on his mistakes but on the salvation offered through Christ filled him with joy. "To all in Rome who are loved by God and called to be his holy people," he muttered, envisioning the community of believers that Paul wrote to. James felt a connection to them, transcending the walls that enclosed him. He had a new calling: to be a light in darkness.

His understanding of grace deepened, and he became a disciple not restricted by his surroundings but empowered by faith. Every day was a chance to share hope with fellow inmates, leading Bible studies and encouraging others to embrace the grace he had found.

Through prayer and perseverance, James transformed his prison into a sanctuary of worship. Romans 1 blossomed in his heart, and as days turned to years, he understood—he was a prisoner of hope, a disciple of Christ, truly free through His grace.

One can see how this scripture can serve as a powerful motivator and guide for personal transformation and outreach to others. Romans 1:1-7 speaks about Paul’s calling as an apostle, his dedication to spreading the gospel, and his longing to bring others into the fold of Christ. Here’s how he did it;

1. Embracing His Calling: James identifies with Paul’s commitment to his mission and recognizes that his own life—even behind bars—can reflect God’s purpose. He saw his time in prison not just as punishment but as an opportunity to serve others and become a mentor. This realization allowed James to take on the role of an evangelist within the prison community, motivated by Romans 1:1 where Paul speaks about being called to be an apostle.

2. Transforming His Life: With a focus on the transformative power of the gospel, James begins to actively change his own life through faith and study of scripture. The verses remind him of the grace he has received and the obligation he feels to live a life that honors that grace. This leads him to adopt new values and behaviors—essentially practicing what he preaches.

3. Helping Others Overcome Sin: Daily, James dedicated himself to the chapel, where he leads Bible studies and prayer groups. He uses Romans 1:5-6, which discusses the obedience that comes from faith, to encourage his peers to seek change in their own lives. By sharing his own struggles and victories, he creates a safe space for others to open up and seek help in overcoming their issues with sin, addiction, or despair.

4. Building Community: James begins to foster a sense of community among those seeking redemption. His steadfastness and authenticity attract others to him. As he embodies the principles found in Romans—such as love, service, and grace—he becomes a beacon of hope and a true disciple, reflecting Paul’s desire to cultivate relationships and fellowship in the faith.

5. Celebration of Faith and Change: As the day of James’ release approaches after almost 30 years, the community he has built within the chapel celebrates not just his journey but their collective growth. They acknowledge how the teachings inspired by Romans helped them find purpose and direction. James will always be viewed as a mentor and a testament to the possibility of redemption, even in the most challenging circumstances.

6. Transition to Life Outside: As his release approaches, James knows he is equipped with not only a deeper understanding of his faith but also a strong support system he has built in prison with those on the outside. He is prepared to face the challenges of reintegration into society, carrying with him the lessons of grace, love, and service articulated in Romans 1:1-7.

In summary, Romans 1:1-7 serves as a foundation for James to excel spiritually and socially while in prison, ultimately leading him to become a disciple who impacts the lives of many. His commitment to living out the teachings of Paul creates a legacy of hope and transformation that extends beyond his incarceration and will be a part of his soul for all eternity where God will one day call him to His Kingdom expressing, “Well done faithful servant. You have loved as I have taught and will be with me for all Eternity. Boomer today we celebrate you! As Christ’s Apostle! Amen..

Join me as we pray our daily prayer of forgiveness. The Lord’s Prayer.

At the Savior's command and formed by divine teaching, we dare to pray:

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name; thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil. Deliver us, Lord, we pray, from every evil, graciously grant peace in our days, that, by the help of your mercy, we may be always free from sin and safe from all distress, as we await the blessed hope and the coming of our Savior, Jesus Christ. For the kingdom, the power and the glory are yours now and forever.

I am sorry Lord. I believe You died and rose for me. Please forgive me as I forgive others. I share You as my Lord and Savior seeking to live your Will in all things. Prayers for wife Toni and my mother Betty pray for our children especially our two oldest Alexandra & Allen Son in Law Mark Stern; Julian, Gabriel and Jeffrey and our grandchildren Oliver, Julian and Elliott. We pray for those we’ve said we’d pray for and those who’ve asked us to pray for them. We pray for the dying as we do each day Lord give them peace in their last breath. We pray for Holy Mother Church. Our prayers for our niece Brittany. In Jesus Precious Blood by His Name we pray. Amen.

I am a poet obedient to Christ,

Catholic Evangelist Thomas Cruz†Wiggins

†Spirit led God inspired Christ fed†®

Ephesians 6:17-20

12-21-2025 Romans 1 v0107

**Boomer Received the Grace of Apostleship **

In Rome’s embrace, where shadows dance long,

A prisoner named James found strength in the song,

Though bound in his chains, his spirit still soared,

For he held in his heart a truth deeply stored.

From Paul, the apostle, a message proclaimed,

Of grace and of mercy, so wondrously named,

To the gathered in Rome, the saints of the Way,

James felt the call, in the night and the day.

"Set apart for the Gospel," he'd echo aloud,

In trials, in struggles, he'd stand firm and proud,

For in every letter, both bold and profound,

The love of the Savior in unity found.

“To all who are called,” with each word he would pen,

To the faithful of Rome, among women and men,

Beloved of God, chosen from birth,

In Jesus, the Christ, they find truest worth.

With zeal in his heart, he’d share in the plight,

Of those who seek faith in the midst of the night,

For hope doesn’t falter, nor joy lose its flame,

In the fellowship bound by one glorious name.

So rise up, dear brothers, in love and in grace,

Like Boomer, let your voice be a light in this place,

For the power of God, through each story confessed,

Brings salvation to all, and in faith, we are blessed. Amen.

© Thomas Joe Cruz†Wiggins

December 21, 2025 @ 04:44 AM EST

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