NOTES for Rom 12:1-8

“Do not be conformed to this age”... Probably each of us has, to one degree or another, a desire either “to be like all normal people” or, conversely, “not to be like everyone else.” Yet both mean that we build our model of behavior either on the model proposed by this age or in opposition to it. One way or another, we still conform ourselves to this world. Paul proposes an entirely different position. It does not matter what the world thinks about my life. It does not matter whether it conforms to the generally accepted norm. Perhaps in some respect it will conform to that norm so closely that I will even find it repugnant: how can I, such an original and distinctive person, behave the way they consider proper?! Christianity simply proposes that we look neither around us nor in the mirror. Our way of seeing must be renewed, and the only way to look at everything with different eyes is first to look at God, and only then at everything else. Then, little by little, we will learn to see everything through His eyes.