Scripture
3 Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, 4 who gave himself for our sins to rescue us from the present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father, 5 to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
Reflection
One of the unique things about Christianity is that God himself sacrifices. There is no other faith where the gods themselves do this for their people. Most religions teach that we can attain godliness (or a form of godliness) by our own actions or by self sacrifice. No other religion does God himself give his life to rescue His people from their sins so that they can attain a holiness from above.
That gives me peace in many ways. Peace that I do not need to strive so hard; salvation belongs to our Lord, He has done the hard work and we need just believe in Him. Peace that when I am in need of respite from the temptations of this world, I can turn to God and rest in His holiness. Peace that the bill of debt (which is death and eternal damnation) owed for my sins and all the world’s has been paid upon the cross with the blood of Jesus.
Thoughts for the day
- What does this passage tell you about God or Jesus?
- What does this passage tell you about humanity?
- What do you feel God is telling you through this passage?
- How can you apply this message in an area of your life that needs transformation?
- Is there anyone you think should hear or will benefit from this message? Go and tell them.
Prayer
Invite the Holy Spirit to show you something to rejoice over. Look beyond your current circumstances to the Lord of all Creation. Remember that you are fully, unconditionally loved. Take time to rejoice in the goodness of the God who has saved you.
