Ruminations on Romans

I'm working on the book of Romans for my morning devotions. Look at Paul's definition of the Gospel (Romans 1:16)
"For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God unto salvation"...(italics supplied)
Wait a minute! I always thought "God is love" = gospel.

Suppose you are clinging to a cliff, about to fall off. An experienced rock climber comes running to the foot of the cliff. "Hey! I love you with all my heart" he shouts. He continues to tell you about his undying affection as your grip fades away and you crash to the bottom. At the bottom, you're a bleeding pile of pulp, and the loving rock climber says "it doesn't matter what you've done, I still love you no matter what".
That's not the gospel.
Instead, God scales the cliff, leaping from hold to hold, taking extraordinary risks with each death-defying move. He reaches your side in record time. "I love you with all my heart" he whispers, "will you let me take you down?".

First Words...

In order to propel the proverbial vulcanized spheroid in a forward motion, I submit this recent effort of mine.

Shore to Shore

A peaceful view of tree and water,

Cheerful words from son and daughter.

A bowl of fruit, a slice of bread,

With mango, pineapple, and raspberries we’ve been fed.

The Word of God bestowed upon youth,

Such comforting promises, with the ring of Truth.

When we as families first began

Our mission together to follow God’s plan,

We could not foresee how we would be

So closely knit—one big family.

One day, on glassy sea, again we’ll meet,

And with joyful cry sit at Jesus’ feet.

Home at last to wander no more,

At home, at one on that peaceful shore