We continue with selections from The Justification Reader by Thomas C. Oden.
Sorry for the delay. I forgot to send this!
The concluding act of the justification drama occurs on the last day. This future justifying act of God, having already been established on the cross is looking toward it final vindication at the end of time: "Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God's wrath through him!" (Romans 5:9). The same word for justification that is used in courts of law is also used of God's judgment in the last day.
Justification is a presently experienced reality, assuming union with Christ by faith, which anticipates the final day of judgment.
The verdict of this final-day court has already been announced, although ensuing history continues. Justification is an end-time event in which the believer stands already, as if in an anticipative sense.
Think imagination. Think "sure thing" even though we cannot see any concrete proof. Think of it as a word upon which we can rest our lives. That's faithful imagination. Being given - by the Holy Spirit - the gift to trust that the end-time judgment is "for us"...in favor of us...justifies us, so that we can go about this day with the clear understanding that God's word on our behalf in Christ, Jesus, is available today and cannot be taken from us. There is as Oden notes: "not two justifications, one by God and another confirmed by our obedience, nor one that occurs with faith, and a final justification that occurs at the end time dependent upon our works." Therefore we are put into a place today that is a complete gift that will always be out of our control and always in the hands of our God for us to take for "life." Don't listen to other words! This is as Good as the News gets!!!
Connection: Live as though the end is true - God is eternally for us. Live as though the beginning is like wise true - God creates and it is good. Live as though the promises of our God are promises that never fail and are never overcome. Go for it.
This is the day that you make for us. Loving Lord it is through your love that we are sent out into this day and by your love for us our day takes on a new shape and a new direction. Such graciousness is the power to lift us up from all despair and have us sit with your at the great banquet in your glorious reign. Amen.
Friday, January 31, 2003
Wednesday, January 29, 2003
Thursday, 30 January, 2003
We continue with selections from The Justification Reader by Thomas C. Oden.
My advice on this reading is simply to settle into it and reread it if necessary. It is a very important clarification.
Doe the continuation of our justification depend on faith alone, or upon our personal righteousness? Justification is completed at once, upon having faith. Believers, upon their justification, are called to complete obedience. The continuation of our pardon, and thereby of a justified state, depends on the faithfulness of God, upon whose promise we depend. From our side, the continuation of justification depends on faith alone. Nothing is further required except the application of righteousness imputed, that is, faith, taking seriously what God gives.
Taking God seriously. I think many folks are afraid to do that. It is much easier to hold onto the way we see things and the way we want things to be or the way we were taught they should be than to simply take what God says about us seriously. We are justified. Trust it. Do not try to put conditions on what has been declared by the Lord God as the way it is. Remember, when God speaks, God creates...out of nothing. So, when God says we are justified...that's the whole story. Reality has it that everyone of us is a natural born scorekeeper...bean counters who live as though we must stack up points in order to win something. I would call this Skeet ball theology. When I would go to an amusement park, I'd play skeet ball and win those tokens so that I could eventually have enough to cash in on a prize. Well, in the reign of God, when we walk in the door God gives us the prize and says play as much as you like the prize is already in hand. God will not take that away or say...you didn't score enough points to keep it or win something else. We need to help one another trust this amazing promise of our God.
Connection: We keep score too much already...when will we begin to be more graceful to ourselves and one another. This doesn't mean we can't have goals or work hard, it means our worth is already guaranteed...we are the children of God...beloved. That is what makes the day!
Precious Lord, how wonderful it is that your treat us to the fullness of you gracious reign when you invite us to live as though your word of love and life for us is the whole story and we are able to begin each day and each moment within your abiding presence and embrace. Amen.
My advice on this reading is simply to settle into it and reread it if necessary. It is a very important clarification.
Doe the continuation of our justification depend on faith alone, or upon our personal righteousness? Justification is completed at once, upon having faith. Believers, upon their justification, are called to complete obedience. The continuation of our pardon, and thereby of a justified state, depends on the faithfulness of God, upon whose promise we depend. From our side, the continuation of justification depends on faith alone. Nothing is further required except the application of righteousness imputed, that is, faith, taking seriously what God gives.
Taking God seriously. I think many folks are afraid to do that. It is much easier to hold onto the way we see things and the way we want things to be or the way we were taught they should be than to simply take what God says about us seriously. We are justified. Trust it. Do not try to put conditions on what has been declared by the Lord God as the way it is. Remember, when God speaks, God creates...out of nothing. So, when God says we are justified...that's the whole story. Reality has it that everyone of us is a natural born scorekeeper...bean counters who live as though we must stack up points in order to win something. I would call this Skeet ball theology. When I would go to an amusement park, I'd play skeet ball and win those tokens so that I could eventually have enough to cash in on a prize. Well, in the reign of God, when we walk in the door God gives us the prize and says play as much as you like the prize is already in hand. God will not take that away or say...you didn't score enough points to keep it or win something else. We need to help one another trust this amazing promise of our God.
Connection: We keep score too much already...when will we begin to be more graceful to ourselves and one another. This doesn't mean we can't have goals or work hard, it means our worth is already guaranteed...we are the children of God...beloved. That is what makes the day!
Precious Lord, how wonderful it is that your treat us to the fullness of you gracious reign when you invite us to live as though your word of love and life for us is the whole story and we are able to begin each day and each moment within your abiding presence and embrace. Amen.
Tuesday, January 28, 2003
Wednesday, 29 January, 2003
We continue with selections from The Justification Reader by Thomas C. Oden.
Justification is best understood in direct contrast with condemnation. Those justified are not condemned. Those not justified are condemned. There is no middle way (Matthew 12:37), no way to stand as partially justified. To justify is to liberate totally and once for all the offender precisely while condemnation seemed just. Under the law the sinner is condemned. Under the gospel the sinner is justified. "It is God who justifies. Who is he that condemns?" (Romans 8:33,34)
Gospel justification views the convicted offender as suddenly and fully pardoned in a way that destroys the connection between his behavior and its penal consequence. Pardon reverses the sentence of condemnation (Romans 8:1). Forgiveness is not cheap. It is not as if the sinner is inaccurately declared innocent without any price being paid. Rather, the price is paid by another, so that the liability to punishment of the sinner is removed.
I know this is a bunch of stuff to throw out at everyone but I want to stress one thing. Justification has to do with life...living...how we are able to go about the day and live boldly as individuals in community. To live as though we must justify ourselves and all our actions...or do everything right in order to be worth something...or work to make ourselves look as though we are right and good - is to be condemned to a futile and despairing life. The list of what we could and should do would never end. There is no way to be perfect before God and one another (I think we all know that from our own experiences.). Instead, we begin our journey in this day with the announcement that we are justified before God...because God says so. In that announcement, our lives are made free from all the games and attempts of "making it all right" and we can live as though we are just what God says about us. Do you see how those two starting points are very, very different?
Connection: We are a part of a people who have heard a word of grace shared with us and within that gracious reign of our God we begin this day. As part of this day - a day full of grace - we are given the opportunity to live as though it is indeed true for us. As that makes a claim on us, we become a witness to God's justifying love -here and now.
Liberating Lord, you do not let us continue to march along a downward spiral of self-centeredness. Instead you call us to lift up our heads to see the new life you place before us as your beloved community. Encourage us to walk within such a gracious embrace. Amen.
Justification is best understood in direct contrast with condemnation. Those justified are not condemned. Those not justified are condemned. There is no middle way (Matthew 12:37), no way to stand as partially justified. To justify is to liberate totally and once for all the offender precisely while condemnation seemed just. Under the law the sinner is condemned. Under the gospel the sinner is justified. "It is God who justifies. Who is he that condemns?" (Romans 8:33,34)
Gospel justification views the convicted offender as suddenly and fully pardoned in a way that destroys the connection between his behavior and its penal consequence. Pardon reverses the sentence of condemnation (Romans 8:1). Forgiveness is not cheap. It is not as if the sinner is inaccurately declared innocent without any price being paid. Rather, the price is paid by another, so that the liability to punishment of the sinner is removed.
I know this is a bunch of stuff to throw out at everyone but I want to stress one thing. Justification has to do with life...living...how we are able to go about the day and live boldly as individuals in community. To live as though we must justify ourselves and all our actions...or do everything right in order to be worth something...or work to make ourselves look as though we are right and good - is to be condemned to a futile and despairing life. The list of what we could and should do would never end. There is no way to be perfect before God and one another (I think we all know that from our own experiences.). Instead, we begin our journey in this day with the announcement that we are justified before God...because God says so. In that announcement, our lives are made free from all the games and attempts of "making it all right" and we can live as though we are just what God says about us. Do you see how those two starting points are very, very different?
Connection: We are a part of a people who have heard a word of grace shared with us and within that gracious reign of our God we begin this day. As part of this day - a day full of grace - we are given the opportunity to live as though it is indeed true for us. As that makes a claim on us, we become a witness to God's justifying love -here and now.
Liberating Lord, you do not let us continue to march along a downward spiral of self-centeredness. Instead you call us to lift up our heads to see the new life you place before us as your beloved community. Encourage us to walk within such a gracious embrace. Amen.
Tuesday, 28 January, 2003
We continue with selections from The Justification Reader by Thomas C. Oden.
Some of the language involved in the justifying action of our God is taken from courtroom/legal images.
In this courtroom an incomparable Advocate has appeared. "We have one who speaks to the Father in our defense - Jesus Christ, the Righteous One" (1 John 2:1). A satisfaction is offered, substituting another's suffering for the penalty due to sinners: "He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins" (1 John 2:2). The sacrifice of one is accepted for many: "Through the obedience of the one man the many will be made righteous" (Romans 5:19).
On this basis the judge reverse the judgment, grants a full acquittal, and justifies the accused: "Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus" (Romans 8:1). The sinless One has become sin for us, taking punishment on our behalf, so that we might live in him.
I picked this section because there are quite a few "traditional" images being thrown around. My translation of what takes place before the "Judge" would be something like this: "Yo, Daddy-O, this one (meaning you and I) is with me, s/he's cool." And that would be that. No matter what was before that moment. The Judge (if you want to use that language) sees us through the love the Judge has for Christ, Jesus. Yes, we deserve to be punished or put to death or...whatever...but, we are listed on the books as being "in"...completely without any stipulations. There is no restriction pinned on our "file" that would say "watch him/her closely"..."beware of this one"..."the next time s/he acts up, its out to the woodshed." NO. No condemnation. Why then is the church -the followers of Jesus- known by the world as some of the greatest people of condemnation in town?
Connection: As we have an Advocate for us, this day we may also become for those around us an advocate who looks after the well-being of those who may have no other voice of support and solidarity. Remember, we always have the Advocate standing with us to withstand all voices of condemnation as we live within the graceful reign of God today.
Lord, God, you bring us life and by the power of your Spirit you remind us, even as we continue to act as though we have amnesia, that your love for us will never pass and your power for new life will always be available to us. Praise be to you. Amen.
Some of the language involved in the justifying action of our God is taken from courtroom/legal images.
In this courtroom an incomparable Advocate has appeared. "We have one who speaks to the Father in our defense - Jesus Christ, the Righteous One" (1 John 2:1). A satisfaction is offered, substituting another's suffering for the penalty due to sinners: "He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins" (1 John 2:2). The sacrifice of one is accepted for many: "Through the obedience of the one man the many will be made righteous" (Romans 5:19).
On this basis the judge reverse the judgment, grants a full acquittal, and justifies the accused: "Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus" (Romans 8:1). The sinless One has become sin for us, taking punishment on our behalf, so that we might live in him.
I picked this section because there are quite a few "traditional" images being thrown around. My translation of what takes place before the "Judge" would be something like this: "Yo, Daddy-O, this one (meaning you and I) is with me, s/he's cool." And that would be that. No matter what was before that moment. The Judge (if you want to use that language) sees us through the love the Judge has for Christ, Jesus. Yes, we deserve to be punished or put to death or...whatever...but, we are listed on the books as being "in"...completely without any stipulations. There is no restriction pinned on our "file" that would say "watch him/her closely"..."beware of this one"..."the next time s/he acts up, its out to the woodshed." NO. No condemnation. Why then is the church -the followers of Jesus- known by the world as some of the greatest people of condemnation in town?
Connection: As we have an Advocate for us, this day we may also become for those around us an advocate who looks after the well-being of those who may have no other voice of support and solidarity. Remember, we always have the Advocate standing with us to withstand all voices of condemnation as we live within the graceful reign of God today.
Lord, God, you bring us life and by the power of your Spirit you remind us, even as we continue to act as though we have amnesia, that your love for us will never pass and your power for new life will always be available to us. Praise be to you. Amen.
Monday, January 27, 2003
Monday, 27 January, 2003
We continue with selections from The Justification Reader by Thomas C. Oden.
"Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God's wrath through him." (Romans 5:9)
We have been justified by what Christ has done, and not by the way we have responded to him. Our affirmative response merely confirms the value of the gift God has given. Justification is God's work, not (humanity's). It is a decision of the Judge, not of the accused who prior to his/her pardon is guilty as charged.
I know that some people are turned off by the notion of Jesus' blood shed or spilled out "for us." For some it sounds brutal...pagan...like a sacrifice...and that is out of the realm of their thinking. I wonder if that use of the idea of being "justified by his blood" brings us back to the complete one sided action of God's justification. What brings life to a person in ancient days was the blood. It is exactly why kosher meats are from animals killed in a way that drains the blood from the animal before it is available for human consumption. Like God acting for the people of Israel in Egypt in the story of the exodus when the lamb's blood was put on the door posts of their homes - to completely protect them. God acted. God protected. No blood...no life. When people try to press the point that a person needs to make a "decision" to follow Jesus, remember that it is always the decision of God to be for us that is the power for the life that comes to all the followers of Jesus. We are the people God has fashioned. We are a gifted people who "merely confirm the value of God's gift freely given to us.
Connection: The very life force of our God is spilled for us. It is to be a statement that carries more power than any other statement that can be said about us. Trust it. We do not have to play games that deal with whether or not we deserve it or have done anything correctly to have God so much on our side. In a day when people are told to "trust the pizza"...first trust that which is the power for new life every day.
Lord, your love for us is the very foundation from which we move into the adventure of life within this day. You have colored everything with your loving kindness and therefore our lives are full of the colors of hopefulness. Praise be to you. Amen.
"Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God's wrath through him." (Romans 5:9)
We have been justified by what Christ has done, and not by the way we have responded to him. Our affirmative response merely confirms the value of the gift God has given. Justification is God's work, not (humanity's). It is a decision of the Judge, not of the accused who prior to his/her pardon is guilty as charged.
I know that some people are turned off by the notion of Jesus' blood shed or spilled out "for us." For some it sounds brutal...pagan...like a sacrifice...and that is out of the realm of their thinking. I wonder if that use of the idea of being "justified by his blood" brings us back to the complete one sided action of God's justification. What brings life to a person in ancient days was the blood. It is exactly why kosher meats are from animals killed in a way that drains the blood from the animal before it is available for human consumption. Like God acting for the people of Israel in Egypt in the story of the exodus when the lamb's blood was put on the door posts of their homes - to completely protect them. God acted. God protected. No blood...no life. When people try to press the point that a person needs to make a "decision" to follow Jesus, remember that it is always the decision of God to be for us that is the power for the life that comes to all the followers of Jesus. We are the people God has fashioned. We are a gifted people who "merely confirm the value of God's gift freely given to us.
Connection: The very life force of our God is spilled for us. It is to be a statement that carries more power than any other statement that can be said about us. Trust it. We do not have to play games that deal with whether or not we deserve it or have done anything correctly to have God so much on our side. In a day when people are told to "trust the pizza"...first trust that which is the power for new life every day.
Lord, your love for us is the very foundation from which we move into the adventure of life within this day. You have colored everything with your loving kindness and therefore our lives are full of the colors of hopefulness. Praise be to you. Amen.
Friday, January 24, 2003
Friday, 24 January, 2003
We continue with selections from The Justification Reader by Thomas C. Oden.
The word of the cross is not: "I will love you if you become perfect," but "While we were yet sinners, at the right time, Christ died for the ungodly" (Romans 5:6-8) Luther understood this profoundly. On the basis of the self-justifying works of the law, the holy God would not let sin go unpunished. Yet on the basis of the gospel, God is merciful precisely toward humbled sinners.
Origen grasped it just as clearly in the third century. "Christ died not for the godly but for the ungodly. For we were ungodly before we turned to God, and Christ died for us before we believed. Undoubtedly he would not have done this unless either he himself, or God the Father, who gave up his only-begotten Son for the redemption of the ungodly, had superabundant love towards us.
"On the basis of the gospel" is the place in which we begin our journey as the followers of Jesus. There may be many other words heard within the scriptures, but we return to the word that is our defining word - the gospel. For on the basis of the gospel, God is for us before it would enter our minds or our hearts to trust God. The story of God's "superabundant" love precedes our actions and it does not count on our actions for its power to be unleashed. In fact, the power of the Good News acts for us before we turn to God...it turns us. We are given the strength to trust God at God's word for us and walk forward as though no other word will have a say over us.
Connection: This is powerful stuff. It may sound like just words. But these are words that will not fade and these are words that have a history of grasping the saints of old and making for a new life when there appeared to be no possibility of life.
Before we move or speak, O Lord, you are with us and you promise to abide with us no matter what the day may bring into our lives. Empower us with your Holy Spirit so that we may be joyfully aware of your superabundant love towards us. Amen.
The word of the cross is not: "I will love you if you become perfect," but "While we were yet sinners, at the right time, Christ died for the ungodly" (Romans 5:6-8) Luther understood this profoundly. On the basis of the self-justifying works of the law, the holy God would not let sin go unpunished. Yet on the basis of the gospel, God is merciful precisely toward humbled sinners.
Origen grasped it just as clearly in the third century. "Christ died not for the godly but for the ungodly. For we were ungodly before we turned to God, and Christ died for us before we believed. Undoubtedly he would not have done this unless either he himself, or God the Father, who gave up his only-begotten Son for the redemption of the ungodly, had superabundant love towards us.
"On the basis of the gospel" is the place in which we begin our journey as the followers of Jesus. There may be many other words heard within the scriptures, but we return to the word that is our defining word - the gospel. For on the basis of the gospel, God is for us before it would enter our minds or our hearts to trust God. The story of God's "superabundant" love precedes our actions and it does not count on our actions for its power to be unleashed. In fact, the power of the Good News acts for us before we turn to God...it turns us. We are given the strength to trust God at God's word for us and walk forward as though no other word will have a say over us.
Connection: This is powerful stuff. It may sound like just words. But these are words that will not fade and these are words that have a history of grasping the saints of old and making for a new life when there appeared to be no possibility of life.
Before we move or speak, O Lord, you are with us and you promise to abide with us no matter what the day may bring into our lives. Empower us with your Holy Spirit so that we may be joyfully aware of your superabundant love towards us. Amen.
Wednesday, January 22, 2003
Thursday, 23 January, 2003
We continue with selections from The Justification Reader by Thomas C. Oden.
Justification does not result from higher commitment to greater ideals or more advanced actualization of good character or better performance of the demands of the law. It is solely due to a declaration of God's merciful attitude toward the sinner whose life is hid in Christ.
Some things cannot be said or announced too much. This is one of those pieces of our faith that must be like a bell or buzzer going off throughout the day to simply remind us of God's amazing and justifying grace. It is such a contrary notion within our world. Unfortunately, it is also a contrary notion to what is often preached as the Good News and is not Good at all - for it keeps running away from the total and complete and the universal action of God for us. The power for life that come from this word of justification is one we must share within the body of Christ. It becomes the meal we share - the wine we drink - the bread we pass - the conversations we enter - and the presence we feel as we gather together. The whole enables each person to see the life that is promised.
Connection: Be the beloved community! There are many ways we can let one another know of the gift of life that is offered to each of us today. We become the voice box of such a word or the touch that alerts others to God's gracious presence with us. What a powerful gift we are through God's merciful action in Christ for all people.
Lord of Life you bring a breath of fresh air into our day and pull us into your blessed rest and hope-filled vision. Thanks to you for sending sisters and brothers to remind us of your eternal love that wraps us up and nurtures our living. Amen.
Justification does not result from higher commitment to greater ideals or more advanced actualization of good character or better performance of the demands of the law. It is solely due to a declaration of God's merciful attitude toward the sinner whose life is hid in Christ.
Some things cannot be said or announced too much. This is one of those pieces of our faith that must be like a bell or buzzer going off throughout the day to simply remind us of God's amazing and justifying grace. It is such a contrary notion within our world. Unfortunately, it is also a contrary notion to what is often preached as the Good News and is not Good at all - for it keeps running away from the total and complete and the universal action of God for us. The power for life that come from this word of justification is one we must share within the body of Christ. It becomes the meal we share - the wine we drink - the bread we pass - the conversations we enter - and the presence we feel as we gather together. The whole enables each person to see the life that is promised.
Connection: Be the beloved community! There are many ways we can let one another know of the gift of life that is offered to each of us today. We become the voice box of such a word or the touch that alerts others to God's gracious presence with us. What a powerful gift we are through God's merciful action in Christ for all people.
Lord of Life you bring a breath of fresh air into our day and pull us into your blessed rest and hope-filled vision. Thanks to you for sending sisters and brothers to remind us of your eternal love that wraps us up and nurtures our living. Amen.
Tuesday, January 21, 2003
Wednesday, 22 January, 2003
We continue with selections from The Justification Reader by Thomas C. Oden.
Answering the question "What is Justification?" Oden adds:
Justification is not the forgiveness of a (person) without righteousness, but a declaration that "the person" possesses a righteousness that perfectly and forever satisfies the law, namely Christ's righteousness.(2 Cor.5:21; Rom. 4:6-8) The sole condition on which this righteousness is imputed or credited to the believer is faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, who is at the same time truly (human) and truly God.
Justification is the opposite of condemnation. One is justified who is viewed as right with the Judge, the law, and the Lawgiver. The justifying Judge declares that all the requirements of the law are entirely satisfied. The person justified is declared to be entitled to all the advantages and rewards arising from perfect obedience to the law.
God declares it and that is that. And yet, we find it next to impossible to accept that declaration...for us and for others. We read the bible...we pray to God...we long for the vision of God's reign to come into being here and now...and yet, we will do everything and anything to not trust what God declares once and for all. Because of that "hard-headedness" and need to be in control, we turn our back on the God who wants to bestow on us all the "advantages and rewards arising from perfect obedience to the law" (even though we do not obey perfectly). Too often, we would trust our own way than the way that is announced to us in the Good News. We keep throwing up conditions and will not let God be the God of all things.
Connection: Yes, you may be like me...a real meatball at times...and yet, the only word that counts for the making of this day is the word God declares as the truth about us and for us. Nothing can turn that announcement off...nothing.
Lord continue to bless us and offer us new life for we can be so slow to hear your word of love and forgiveness and so unforgiving of ourselves and those around us. Be the faithful God that has never let your people's ways rule. Amen.
Answering the question "What is Justification?" Oden adds:
Justification is not the forgiveness of a (person) without righteousness, but a declaration that "the person" possesses a righteousness that perfectly and forever satisfies the law, namely Christ's righteousness.(2 Cor.5:21; Rom. 4:6-8) The sole condition on which this righteousness is imputed or credited to the believer is faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, who is at the same time truly (human) and truly God.
Justification is the opposite of condemnation. One is justified who is viewed as right with the Judge, the law, and the Lawgiver. The justifying Judge declares that all the requirements of the law are entirely satisfied. The person justified is declared to be entitled to all the advantages and rewards arising from perfect obedience to the law.
God declares it and that is that. And yet, we find it next to impossible to accept that declaration...for us and for others. We read the bible...we pray to God...we long for the vision of God's reign to come into being here and now...and yet, we will do everything and anything to not trust what God declares once and for all. Because of that "hard-headedness" and need to be in control, we turn our back on the God who wants to bestow on us all the "advantages and rewards arising from perfect obedience to the law" (even though we do not obey perfectly). Too often, we would trust our own way than the way that is announced to us in the Good News. We keep throwing up conditions and will not let God be the God of all things.
Connection: Yes, you may be like me...a real meatball at times...and yet, the only word that counts for the making of this day is the word God declares as the truth about us and for us. Nothing can turn that announcement off...nothing.
Lord continue to bless us and offer us new life for we can be so slow to hear your word of love and forgiveness and so unforgiving of ourselves and those around us. Be the faithful God that has never let your people's ways rule. Amen.
Tuesday, 21 January, 2003
We continue with selections from The Justification Reader by Thomas C. Oden.
Answering the question "What is Justification?" Oden writes:
It is not that the law is blandly relaxed or dishonestly set aside. Rather, the law is declared to be fulfilled in an even stricter sense: by the Judge himself, by his own sacrificial offering of himself as he himself fulfills the requirements of the law for us! This happens by imputing or crediting to the believer by God himself the perfect righteousness of his representative and guarantee: God the Son, Jesus Christ (Rom10:3-9).
Notice where all the action is in regard to how we are justified. The Judge acts...and the Judge acts on our behalf...for us...doing what you would think we are to do in order to fulfill the law. In many ways we must take a look at what that does to the whole notion of "judgment." The one who judges us...is completely on our side. What is called "Judgment Day" is not something to be feared for we know the Judge and the Judge credits us with the "perfect righteousness of his representative and guarantee: God the Son, Jesus Christ." That's a pretty powerful endorsement! That is a gift. That...when trusted...is the power to live a whole new life and look at our world and our relationships within a whole new light.
Connection: As followers of Jesus we do not say "if this is the case." We say, in faith, "This is the case." No additions...no conditions. This is the case and this is how we can face what is to come around the corner of this day.
Lord of Life, by your amazing grace you act on our behalf and you promise to see us within the light of Christ Jesus and through your sacrificial love for us. We give you thanks as we long to trust your word of life for us and live within its glory and light. Amen.
Answering the question "What is Justification?" Oden writes:
It is not that the law is blandly relaxed or dishonestly set aside. Rather, the law is declared to be fulfilled in an even stricter sense: by the Judge himself, by his own sacrificial offering of himself as he himself fulfills the requirements of the law for us! This happens by imputing or crediting to the believer by God himself the perfect righteousness of his representative and guarantee: God the Son, Jesus Christ (Rom10:3-9).
Notice where all the action is in regard to how we are justified. The Judge acts...and the Judge acts on our behalf...for us...doing what you would think we are to do in order to fulfill the law. In many ways we must take a look at what that does to the whole notion of "judgment." The one who judges us...is completely on our side. What is called "Judgment Day" is not something to be feared for we know the Judge and the Judge credits us with the "perfect righteousness of his representative and guarantee: God the Son, Jesus Christ." That's a pretty powerful endorsement! That is a gift. That...when trusted...is the power to live a whole new life and look at our world and our relationships within a whole new light.
Connection: As followers of Jesus we do not say "if this is the case." We say, in faith, "This is the case." No additions...no conditions. This is the case and this is how we can face what is to come around the corner of this day.
Lord of Life, by your amazing grace you act on our behalf and you promise to see us within the light of Christ Jesus and through your sacrificial love for us. We give you thanks as we long to trust your word of life for us and live within its glory and light. Amen.
Monday, January 20, 2003
Monday, 20 January, 2003
We continue with pieces from The Justification Reader by Thomas C. Oden.
Justification is the pardoning act of the supreme Judge of all, by which he pardons all the sins of those who trust in the pardoning work of Christ in our place on the cross. In this way the righteousness of Christ is applied to the believer.
I wanted to stop with this brief quote because it is so important that we remember whose sins are pardoned. Is it those who have been good? No. Is it those who have finally stopped being sinful? No. God "pardons all the sins of those who trust in the pardoning work of Christ in our place on the cross." There is no council or committee or person who makes a decision whether or not your sins have been pardoned and therefore whether you are justified or not. Do you trust that this is what God has done once and for all? Well...don't listen to any other voice but the one that announces the pardon. Did you also notice how Oden puts "all" in italicized print. There is no exception to God's actions on our behalf. All is all...and we are pardoned and life can begin again...as fresh as can be. That is why it is called a gift.
Connection: Do not be weighed down by what was and what has happened. Take on the day as though you trust that God's pardoning work in Christ is true. But also, trust that it is true for others who trust this word...even if you do not want God to pardon them. That is how the world changes. This Good News is not just for me...it is for all who trust God's word.
Never-ending Voice of Forgiveness, you bless this day by the power of your reconciling love. By your gracious action in Christ, Jesus, there is no power that can have a hold on us. Encourage us to trust in you word alone. Amen.
Justification is the pardoning act of the supreme Judge of all, by which he pardons all the sins of those who trust in the pardoning work of Christ in our place on the cross. In this way the righteousness of Christ is applied to the believer.
I wanted to stop with this brief quote because it is so important that we remember whose sins are pardoned. Is it those who have been good? No. Is it those who have finally stopped being sinful? No. God "pardons all the sins of those who trust in the pardoning work of Christ in our place on the cross." There is no council or committee or person who makes a decision whether or not your sins have been pardoned and therefore whether you are justified or not. Do you trust that this is what God has done once and for all? Well...don't listen to any other voice but the one that announces the pardon. Did you also notice how Oden puts "all" in italicized print. There is no exception to God's actions on our behalf. All is all...and we are pardoned and life can begin again...as fresh as can be. That is why it is called a gift.
Connection: Do not be weighed down by what was and what has happened. Take on the day as though you trust that God's pardoning work in Christ is true. But also, trust that it is true for others who trust this word...even if you do not want God to pardon them. That is how the world changes. This Good News is not just for me...it is for all who trust God's word.
Never-ending Voice of Forgiveness, you bless this day by the power of your reconciling love. By your gracious action in Christ, Jesus, there is no power that can have a hold on us. Encourage us to trust in you word alone. Amen.
Friday, January 17, 2003
Friday, 17 January, 2003
This week devotions will be based on pieces from The Justification Reader by Thomas C. Oden.
How better to end a week than with a simple definition of justification
Justification is the declaration of God that one who trusts in Christ's atoning work, however sinful, is treated or accounted as righteous. This credited righteousness is received by faith. ...This uprighted relation with the holy God comes about as a decisive, merciful divine act, an actual event in history that occurs on the cross. Justification is the reversal of God's judgment against the sinner, in which the sinner is declared to be no longer exposed to the penalty of the law, which is ultimately spiritual death, but restored to divine favor.
It is 100% action by God. We...are called to trust it. There is no need to act a certain way or go through a set number of hoops in order to be considered "justified." We need only trust that what God does is done....completely and without conditions for all people. It's Good News! It's the power to change and transform all things. We are justified before God from the beginning of our lives through to the end...even when we think we do not deserve it. That is why when our lives have been lived in ways that are seen as being contrary to the ways of life within the reign of God we are still justified before God - completely and without condition. It is that never-failing word of love that is the power to bring new life to us each and every day no matter what may be happening to us or around us.
Connection: Don't be fooled by a message that is conditional and is being sold as the Good News. When you hear that kind of label (Good News) being put on something that smells like it is conditional and dependent on your actions it will begin to stink when compared to God's justifying action on our behalf. I like to teach children to say something very theologically sound at that point: baloney! And then, walk away and turn to God's promise for life!
Praise be to you O God, for you bring into our lives a power for renewal and life that can make all things new. By the power of your Holy Spirit, nurture in us the faith to follow your word of life made incarnate in Christ, Jesus. Amen.
How better to end a week than with a simple definition of justification
Justification is the declaration of God that one who trusts in Christ's atoning work, however sinful, is treated or accounted as righteous. This credited righteousness is received by faith. ...This uprighted relation with the holy God comes about as a decisive, merciful divine act, an actual event in history that occurs on the cross. Justification is the reversal of God's judgment against the sinner, in which the sinner is declared to be no longer exposed to the penalty of the law, which is ultimately spiritual death, but restored to divine favor.
It is 100% action by God. We...are called to trust it. There is no need to act a certain way or go through a set number of hoops in order to be considered "justified." We need only trust that what God does is done....completely and without conditions for all people. It's Good News! It's the power to change and transform all things. We are justified before God from the beginning of our lives through to the end...even when we think we do not deserve it. That is why when our lives have been lived in ways that are seen as being contrary to the ways of life within the reign of God we are still justified before God - completely and without condition. It is that never-failing word of love that is the power to bring new life to us each and every day no matter what may be happening to us or around us.
Connection: Don't be fooled by a message that is conditional and is being sold as the Good News. When you hear that kind of label (Good News) being put on something that smells like it is conditional and dependent on your actions it will begin to stink when compared to God's justifying action on our behalf. I like to teach children to say something very theologically sound at that point: baloney! And then, walk away and turn to God's promise for life!
Praise be to you O God, for you bring into our lives a power for renewal and life that can make all things new. By the power of your Holy Spirit, nurture in us the faith to follow your word of life made incarnate in Christ, Jesus. Amen.
Wednesday, January 15, 2003
Thursday, 16 January, 2003
This week devotions will be based on pieces from The Justification Reader by Thomas C. Oden.
What is the problem to which justification is an answer? In a word sin, which estranges us from God's holiness...
All sin has the character of setting chains of consequences in motion that cannot be simply backtracked or reversed. No simple restitution can ever be made for sexual infidelity to one's covenant partner, since a solemn inviolable promise once broken is forever broken. Only God's gift of forgiveness is able to overcome this alienation, so destructive to children and family integrity. We have all caused harm that can never be made up for by human hands or works. This is why we stand in such dire need of justification by grace.
Not only does sin estrange us from God's holiness, we are estranged from one another. There is no way we can simply work our way out of that brokenness. As the example used in this quote, infidelity is not something we simply "get over" nor can we act out in some way in order to extract retribution and expect that the hurt and alienation will go away. God's justifying grace is always the power for transformation and renewal and liberation that allows that which is separated to be made whole again. Our will cannot do it. Our attempts to get revenge cannot do it. God only amazes us by giving us peace where there is no peace and hope in the middle of what seems to be utter hopelessness. God justifies for now...for life here and now...for life that is to come.
Connection: We all have many things over which we can be bitter in our lives. We cannot remove the bitterness. In fact, I think things grow more bitter as we try our own methods and ways. What would change in our lives if we trusted that the power of God to justify is greater and makes for a richer life than all the "solutions" we may attempt to conjure up in our own hearts and lives?
Take us Lord. Take us and lift us up so that we may walk in the ways of your grace and meet up with our neighbors in relationships that bring us together within the universal embrace of your love for us all. Amen
What is the problem to which justification is an answer? In a word sin, which estranges us from God's holiness...
All sin has the character of setting chains of consequences in motion that cannot be simply backtracked or reversed. No simple restitution can ever be made for sexual infidelity to one's covenant partner, since a solemn inviolable promise once broken is forever broken. Only God's gift of forgiveness is able to overcome this alienation, so destructive to children and family integrity. We have all caused harm that can never be made up for by human hands or works. This is why we stand in such dire need of justification by grace.
Not only does sin estrange us from God's holiness, we are estranged from one another. There is no way we can simply work our way out of that brokenness. As the example used in this quote, infidelity is not something we simply "get over" nor can we act out in some way in order to extract retribution and expect that the hurt and alienation will go away. God's justifying grace is always the power for transformation and renewal and liberation that allows that which is separated to be made whole again. Our will cannot do it. Our attempts to get revenge cannot do it. God only amazes us by giving us peace where there is no peace and hope in the middle of what seems to be utter hopelessness. God justifies for now...for life here and now...for life that is to come.
Connection: We all have many things over which we can be bitter in our lives. We cannot remove the bitterness. In fact, I think things grow more bitter as we try our own methods and ways. What would change in our lives if we trusted that the power of God to justify is greater and makes for a richer life than all the "solutions" we may attempt to conjure up in our own hearts and lives?
Take us Lord. Take us and lift us up so that we may walk in the ways of your grace and meet up with our neighbors in relationships that bring us together within the universal embrace of your love for us all. Amen
Wednesday, 15 January, 2003
This week devotions will be based on pieces from The Justification Reader by Thomas C. Oden
Why is it (justification) a comforting doctrine?
Luther taught that every time you insist that I am a sinner, just so often do you call me to remember that benefit of Christ my Redeemer, upon whose shoulders, and not upon mine, lie all my sins. So, when you say that I am a sinner, you do not terrify, but comfort me immeasurably.
So central to the Good News is God justifying action that even out of words of condemnation comes the consolation that our God is eternally on our side making us a beloved people. That is utterly amazing and simply impossible to comprehend. What is more amazing is that the Holy Spirit is the power for life that helps us to find comfort and understanding in God's action. The phase that comes to mind is one so central to Lutheran theology, we are "simultaneously saint and sinner." Yes we need to have our brokenness pointed out to us for we can be a stiff necked people, but as Oden writes, there is another word even as we face our brokenness. We are beloved and claimed by God. Amazing....grace.
Connection: There is no end to God's action taken on our behalf and therefore there is no end to the possibility of beginning with a fresh new slate at any time in our lives.
Lord God, your promise of new life is the power to change the present into a new day. Even when we are stuck within the mire of all that can destroy us, you give us a hand and remind us of our place on the solid foundation of your justifying grace. Praise to you, O Lord. Amen.
Why is it (justification) a comforting doctrine?
Luther taught that every time you insist that I am a sinner, just so often do you call me to remember that benefit of Christ my Redeemer, upon whose shoulders, and not upon mine, lie all my sins. So, when you say that I am a sinner, you do not terrify, but comfort me immeasurably.
So central to the Good News is God justifying action that even out of words of condemnation comes the consolation that our God is eternally on our side making us a beloved people. That is utterly amazing and simply impossible to comprehend. What is more amazing is that the Holy Spirit is the power for life that helps us to find comfort and understanding in God's action. The phase that comes to mind is one so central to Lutheran theology, we are "simultaneously saint and sinner." Yes we need to have our brokenness pointed out to us for we can be a stiff necked people, but as Oden writes, there is another word even as we face our brokenness. We are beloved and claimed by God. Amazing....grace.
Connection: There is no end to God's action taken on our behalf and therefore there is no end to the possibility of beginning with a fresh new slate at any time in our lives.
Lord God, your promise of new life is the power to change the present into a new day. Even when we are stuck within the mire of all that can destroy us, you give us a hand and remind us of our place on the solid foundation of your justifying grace. Praise to you, O Lord. Amen.
Monday, January 13, 2003
Tuesday, 14 January, 2003
This week devotions will be based on pieces from The Justification Reader by Thomas C. Oden.
Justification is central to the Christian teaching of salvation. All who affirm classic Christian teaching, whether charismatic or Catholic or Orthodox or Baptist, embrace this teaching. So pivotal is it to Christian preaching that if unbalanced in any way, reverberations are felt in the whole edifice of faith.
Oden goes on to write about the "joint declaration" between Lutheran and Roman Catholics in regard to justification by saying: Both have solemnly agreed that justification is "the touchstone for testing at all times whether a particular interpretation of our relation to God can claim the name Christian. "
When I am doing work in preparation for sermons or for bible study, I am always asking where the word of God's justifying power for new life is heard in the text. It is not always easy to hear. And yet, we must never tire of bringing to the text the lens that enables us to see the God's gracious reign and the unbending and unconditional invitation to step within its delightful truth. This "heart of the gospel" informs our reading. There is no Good News if it does not speak of the God whose faithfulness will endure forever and ever. Sometimes it is important for each of us to simply ask the question, "What's the Good News here?" as we read through a text from scripture. Can you hear that word that eternally for us even when it is not the focus of the biblical text? If not, go back and look again. If not again, then go back to the text and imagine how there could be a word of justification waiting to be uncovered.
Connection: The most difficult text from which we may not be able to hear the Good News of God's justification may be the text that is called "other people." Can you see and hear God's saving word for those in your life who you know do not deserve anything at all. For there...there is that surprise that makes us all fools for Christ.
Precious Lord, you shake us up and continue to bring into our lives a word for new life even as we are willing to settle for the same old - same old that is always trying to keep us within the bonds of death. Praise to you for liberating us from the power of death and calling us into a new relationship with you and those around us for we are then able to see a glimpse of the grandeur of your Reign. Amen.
Justification is central to the Christian teaching of salvation. All who affirm classic Christian teaching, whether charismatic or Catholic or Orthodox or Baptist, embrace this teaching. So pivotal is it to Christian preaching that if unbalanced in any way, reverberations are felt in the whole edifice of faith.
Oden goes on to write about the "joint declaration" between Lutheran and Roman Catholics in regard to justification by saying: Both have solemnly agreed that justification is "the touchstone for testing at all times whether a particular interpretation of our relation to God can claim the name Christian. "
When I am doing work in preparation for sermons or for bible study, I am always asking where the word of God's justifying power for new life is heard in the text. It is not always easy to hear. And yet, we must never tire of bringing to the text the lens that enables us to see the God's gracious reign and the unbending and unconditional invitation to step within its delightful truth. This "heart of the gospel" informs our reading. There is no Good News if it does not speak of the God whose faithfulness will endure forever and ever. Sometimes it is important for each of us to simply ask the question, "What's the Good News here?" as we read through a text from scripture. Can you hear that word that eternally for us even when it is not the focus of the biblical text? If not, go back and look again. If not again, then go back to the text and imagine how there could be a word of justification waiting to be uncovered.
Connection: The most difficult text from which we may not be able to hear the Good News of God's justification may be the text that is called "other people." Can you see and hear God's saving word for those in your life who you know do not deserve anything at all. For there...there is that surprise that makes us all fools for Christ.
Precious Lord, you shake us up and continue to bring into our lives a word for new life even as we are willing to settle for the same old - same old that is always trying to keep us within the bonds of death. Praise to you for liberating us from the power of death and calling us into a new relationship with you and those around us for we are then able to see a glimpse of the grandeur of your Reign. Amen.
Monday, 13 January, 2003
This week devotions will be based on pieces from The Justification Reader by Thomas C. Oden.
In writing about the unique blessing of justification we hear.
Those who come to God come only by grace - only through trusting wholly in what God has already accomplished on the cross.
No Christian teaching is more crucial to peace of conscience that justification. The central blessing of Christian living hinges upon the proper understanding of the free grace of the sovereign God. Rightly believed, it consecrates all other energies of the redeemed person and community.
God open the door to the reign of God. Then again it could be that God not only opens the door, God closes the door behind us for God has already brought us into the reign of God for that is what God longs to do with us. We believe that we are justified before God because of God action alone. Oden's comment that "it consecrates all other energies of the redeemed person and community" demonstrates what power for life there is as we trust that God has indeed acted in such a way for us. Trusting in what God has done there is no other power that is left to rule over us. We are free to move within this day a new and blessed person with one Lord of our life who brings peace for all of our days.
Connection: Justification is at the very heart of the gospel. It is how we are invited to see ourselves and it is how we are invited to see the world around us. It is not a theory. We believe it is the power of God acting for us and making this day completely new...again.
Gracious God before we enter this day you stand with us and promise to be our strength and our guide in and through all things. Support us this day and give us the courage to walk as though your Good News is truly the lens through which we see our world. Amen.
In writing about the unique blessing of justification we hear.
Those who come to God come only by grace - only through trusting wholly in what God has already accomplished on the cross.
No Christian teaching is more crucial to peace of conscience that justification. The central blessing of Christian living hinges upon the proper understanding of the free grace of the sovereign God. Rightly believed, it consecrates all other energies of the redeemed person and community.
God open the door to the reign of God. Then again it could be that God not only opens the door, God closes the door behind us for God has already brought us into the reign of God for that is what God longs to do with us. We believe that we are justified before God because of God action alone. Oden's comment that "it consecrates all other energies of the redeemed person and community" demonstrates what power for life there is as we trust that God has indeed acted in such a way for us. Trusting in what God has done there is no other power that is left to rule over us. We are free to move within this day a new and blessed person with one Lord of our life who brings peace for all of our days.
Connection: Justification is at the very heart of the gospel. It is how we are invited to see ourselves and it is how we are invited to see the world around us. It is not a theory. We believe it is the power of God acting for us and making this day completely new...again.
Gracious God before we enter this day you stand with us and promise to be our strength and our guide in and through all things. Support us this day and give us the courage to walk as though your Good News is truly the lens through which we see our world. Amen.
Thursday, January 9, 2003
Friday, 10 January, 2003
From The Justification Reader by Thomas Oden
The Gift Requires a Response
Divine pardon is a gift that requires a response. It is a personal gift that must be received by a personal agent.
It is like a costly gift of love that hopes and calls for a response in order that it may be completely given and received.
The benefits of justifying grace can be received only if they are received in trusting responsiveness. Faith's part is simply to acknowledge the rightness of God's act by receiving it trustingly, obediently. Faith praises the Justifier by taking seriously his costly, justifying action.
During this past week, we slowly walked through Ephesians 1: 3-14 and took a look at adoption and inheritance and the great mystery of God's will. On our part, we are invited to trust that it is all true and it is the determining factor for our whole life...now and forever. Trust it. Trusting it means we carry on throughout our lives as though God's gift of life to each of us is the trump card we have in our pocket. No matter what the prevailing winds and words may bring into our lives, there has been a word spoken for us...a word that does not leave us behind...a word that gives us our identity and we need only take on the inheritance and go ahead and see what life is like for those who trust that they are God's beloved. No conditions.
Connection: God is right about us. No matter what else we may hear. God is right about us and pleads with us to take it to the bank. Go ahead, invest you life in it today.
Lord you give us a vision for life that begins with your complete affirmation of our lives and your willingness to give up all things in order to bring us into the life of your blessed reign. To you we give thanks and praise and enter into this day. Amen
The Gift Requires a Response
Divine pardon is a gift that requires a response. It is a personal gift that must be received by a personal agent.
It is like a costly gift of love that hopes and calls for a response in order that it may be completely given and received.
The benefits of justifying grace can be received only if they are received in trusting responsiveness. Faith's part is simply to acknowledge the rightness of God's act by receiving it trustingly, obediently. Faith praises the Justifier by taking seriously his costly, justifying action.
During this past week, we slowly walked through Ephesians 1: 3-14 and took a look at adoption and inheritance and the great mystery of God's will. On our part, we are invited to trust that it is all true and it is the determining factor for our whole life...now and forever. Trust it. Trusting it means we carry on throughout our lives as though God's gift of life to each of us is the trump card we have in our pocket. No matter what the prevailing winds and words may bring into our lives, there has been a word spoken for us...a word that does not leave us behind...a word that gives us our identity and we need only take on the inheritance and go ahead and see what life is like for those who trust that they are God's beloved. No conditions.
Connection: God is right about us. No matter what else we may hear. God is right about us and pleads with us to take it to the bank. Go ahead, invest you life in it today.
Lord you give us a vision for life that begins with your complete affirmation of our lives and your willingness to give up all things in order to bring us into the life of your blessed reign. To you we give thanks and praise and enter into this day. Amen
Wednesday, January 8, 2003
Thursday, 9 January, 2003
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, just as he chose us in Christ before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless before him in love. He destined us for adoption as children through Jesus Christ, according to the good pleasure of his will, to the praise of his glorious grace that he freely bestowed on us in the Beloved. ( Ephesians 1:3-6)
In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace that he lavishes on us. 1:7-8a
With all wisdom and insight he has made known to us the good pleasure that he set forth in Christ, as a plan for the fullness of time, to gather up all things in him, thing in heaven and earth. In Christ we have also obtained an inheritance, having been destined according to the purpose of him who accomplishes all things according to his counsel and will, so that we who are first to set our hope on Christ, might live for the praise of his glory. 1:8b-12
In him you also, when you had heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and had believed in him, were marked with the seal of the promised Holy Spirit; this is the pledge of our inheritance toward redemption as God's own people, to the praise of his glory. 1:13-14
"In him (Christ) you also...were marked with the seal of the promised Holy Spirit." The three dots here stand for the journey that takes place on which the "seal" marks us. We hear. We hear the news about how God adopts us and hands us the inheritance of the reign of God...and we trust it...we buy it "hook-line-and-sinker." The Holy Spirit - a complete gift to us - brings it all into being and completion. Do not let anyone ever say to you that there is something more...that you baptism in Christ Jesus is less than someone else's baptism. The story of our God for us is complete and it is announced to us like a water hose from a fire truck that is no contained by anyone and is throw water at everyone and anyone without asking permission or being intentionally directed to some and not others. We can count on being wet with the love of our God and we can expect that the Holy Spirit dwells with us and moves us and will always move us into relationship with our God and one another.
Connection: You are marked. The most dynamic thing that can happen to us today is to remember that eternal fact. Even when we doubt it...even when someone else doubts it about us. We are marked! So...as people sealed by the promised power of the Holy Spirit, what will this day become!?!
Lord, surprise us with your power and love. Lift up our eyes so that we may see in the world around us the possibility of stepping out into this day surrounded and supported by your word of Good News. Amen.
In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace that he lavishes on us. 1:7-8a
With all wisdom and insight he has made known to us the good pleasure that he set forth in Christ, as a plan for the fullness of time, to gather up all things in him, thing in heaven and earth. In Christ we have also obtained an inheritance, having been destined according to the purpose of him who accomplishes all things according to his counsel and will, so that we who are first to set our hope on Christ, might live for the praise of his glory. 1:8b-12
In him you also, when you had heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and had believed in him, were marked with the seal of the promised Holy Spirit; this is the pledge of our inheritance toward redemption as God's own people, to the praise of his glory. 1:13-14
"In him (Christ) you also...were marked with the seal of the promised Holy Spirit." The three dots here stand for the journey that takes place on which the "seal" marks us. We hear. We hear the news about how God adopts us and hands us the inheritance of the reign of God...and we trust it...we buy it "hook-line-and-sinker." The Holy Spirit - a complete gift to us - brings it all into being and completion. Do not let anyone ever say to you that there is something more...that you baptism in Christ Jesus is less than someone else's baptism. The story of our God for us is complete and it is announced to us like a water hose from a fire truck that is no contained by anyone and is throw water at everyone and anyone without asking permission or being intentionally directed to some and not others. We can count on being wet with the love of our God and we can expect that the Holy Spirit dwells with us and moves us and will always move us into relationship with our God and one another.
Connection: You are marked. The most dynamic thing that can happen to us today is to remember that eternal fact. Even when we doubt it...even when someone else doubts it about us. We are marked! So...as people sealed by the promised power of the Holy Spirit, what will this day become!?!
Lord, surprise us with your power and love. Lift up our eyes so that we may see in the world around us the possibility of stepping out into this day surrounded and supported by your word of Good News. Amen.
Wednesday, 8 January, 2003
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, just as he chose us in Christ before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless before him in love. He destined us for adoption as children through Jesus Christ, according to the good pleasure of his will, to the praise of his glorious grace that he freely bestowed on us in the Beloved. ( Ephesians 1:3-6)
In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace that he lavishes on us. 1:7-8a
With all wisdom and insight he has made known to us the good pleasure that he set forth in Christ, as a plan for the fullness of time, to gather up all things in him, thing in heaven and earth. In Christ we have also obtained an inheritance, having been destined according to the purpose of him who accomplishes all things according to his counsel and will, so that we who are first to set our hope on Christ, might live for the praise of his glory. 1:8b-12
To "set our hope on Christ" is to trust the story. Therefore, the inheritance is not due to what we do. The inheritance is handed to us as we trust that our God is completely for us in Christ Jesus. No matter what others may say, trust the story. No matter what rules might be enacted or votes might be taken, trust the story. God's reign is handed to us and we are called to take our place within its gracious domain. In the meantime, we praise God for all that God has revealed to us - a gift of life.
Connection: Listen to no other word. That can be very hard to do in the middle of all the opinions and words of the day and yet the promise for life within God's reign is one that is before each moment. Trust this word about your inheritance!
Lord God, you love for us shines forth as a light that enables us to see all things in a new way. Let your Holy Spirit guide us and lead us into the fullness of your promises. Amen.
In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace that he lavishes on us. 1:7-8a
With all wisdom and insight he has made known to us the good pleasure that he set forth in Christ, as a plan for the fullness of time, to gather up all things in him, thing in heaven and earth. In Christ we have also obtained an inheritance, having been destined according to the purpose of him who accomplishes all things according to his counsel and will, so that we who are first to set our hope on Christ, might live for the praise of his glory. 1:8b-12
To "set our hope on Christ" is to trust the story. Therefore, the inheritance is not due to what we do. The inheritance is handed to us as we trust that our God is completely for us in Christ Jesus. No matter what others may say, trust the story. No matter what rules might be enacted or votes might be taken, trust the story. God's reign is handed to us and we are called to take our place within its gracious domain. In the meantime, we praise God for all that God has revealed to us - a gift of life.
Connection: Listen to no other word. That can be very hard to do in the middle of all the opinions and words of the day and yet the promise for life within God's reign is one that is before each moment. Trust this word about your inheritance!
Lord God, you love for us shines forth as a light that enables us to see all things in a new way. Let your Holy Spirit guide us and lead us into the fullness of your promises. Amen.
Monday, January 6, 2003
Tuesday, 7 January, 2003
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, just as he chose us in Christ before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless before him in love. He destined us for adoption as children through Jesus Christ, according to the good pleasure of his will, to the praise of his glorious grace that he freely bestowed on us in the Beloved. ( Ephesians 1:3-6)
In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace that he lavishes on us. 1:7-8a
I know it is a small addition to the text from yesterday but it is part of a wonderful vision. Redemption ( that is being bought back...rescued...reestablished) and forgiveness are gifts that are given not as we deserve. Rather, they are dumped upon us as freely as water poured from a vessel into the baptismal font...or Gatorade from a cooler onto the head of a victorious football coach. What makes the image more powerful is the fact that it all comes from God's grace...the riches of God's grace...riches that are inexhaustible. I don't often hear the word "lavishes." There's a great ring to it. My first image is that of thick pudding frosting on a cake. It needs to be thick and it is best when the cake maker tries to see how much can be spread between the two layers and then again on top. Ahhh!
Connection: What kind of a day can this be when we see it as a time in which the gracious love of God is lavishly poured out upon us!?!
Lord of Life and Inspiring Spirit, keep us ever mindful of the wonder of your love. A love that can profoundly change the way we view ourselves and our world. A love that never lets us go and a love that keeps us ever connected to others. Come, Holy Spirit, inspire our living. Amen
In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace that he lavishes on us. 1:7-8a
I know it is a small addition to the text from yesterday but it is part of a wonderful vision. Redemption ( that is being bought back...rescued...reestablished) and forgiveness are gifts that are given not as we deserve. Rather, they are dumped upon us as freely as water poured from a vessel into the baptismal font...or Gatorade from a cooler onto the head of a victorious football coach. What makes the image more powerful is the fact that it all comes from God's grace...the riches of God's grace...riches that are inexhaustible. I don't often hear the word "lavishes." There's a great ring to it. My first image is that of thick pudding frosting on a cake. It needs to be thick and it is best when the cake maker tries to see how much can be spread between the two layers and then again on top. Ahhh!
Connection: What kind of a day can this be when we see it as a time in which the gracious love of God is lavishly poured out upon us!?!
Lord of Life and Inspiring Spirit, keep us ever mindful of the wonder of your love. A love that can profoundly change the way we view ourselves and our world. A love that never lets us go and a love that keeps us ever connected to others. Come, Holy Spirit, inspire our living. Amen
Monday, 6 January, 2003
Today is the Epiphany of our Lord. The selection is from the second lesson for the 2nd Sunday after Christmas.
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, just as he chose us in Christ before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless before him in love. He destined us for adoption as children through Jesus Christ, according to the good pleasure of his will, to the praise of his glorious grace that he freely bestowed on us in the Beloved. ( Ephesians 3-6)
There is so much activity going on in this text...and it is all activity by our God. The writer is praising God for being so "for us" that it appears as though God has been "for us" since the beginning of time. We could spend plenty of time considering the implications of adoption by God but I usually find myself attracted to the two phrases "according to the good pleasure of his will." The adoption of each and everyone of us is because of the "good pleasure" it brings God. It is a part of God's will that we be not abandoned - ever. It is part of God's good pleasure that we be picked up, chosen, deliberately selected by God before we have anything to say about it and, you could say, despite anything we may do or say. God acts...and God acts out of God's love for us.
Connection: It doesn't take much to make a day go sour. What if we would make sure that in each of our days we would take the time to remind ourselves and others that it brings pleasure to our God that we are called God's children...by choice. God is not stuck with us...God longs for us like a parent who embraces a beloved child. That love never goes sour.
Praise be to you O God, for there is no day in which we left to ourselves. You abide with us and the Holy Spirit encourages us to find peace in the blessed assurance that we are your beloved in Christ Jesus. Amen.
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, just as he chose us in Christ before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless before him in love. He destined us for adoption as children through Jesus Christ, according to the good pleasure of his will, to the praise of his glorious grace that he freely bestowed on us in the Beloved. ( Ephesians 3-6)
There is so much activity going on in this text...and it is all activity by our God. The writer is praising God for being so "for us" that it appears as though God has been "for us" since the beginning of time. We could spend plenty of time considering the implications of adoption by God but I usually find myself attracted to the two phrases "according to the good pleasure of his will." The adoption of each and everyone of us is because of the "good pleasure" it brings God. It is a part of God's will that we be not abandoned - ever. It is part of God's good pleasure that we be picked up, chosen, deliberately selected by God before we have anything to say about it and, you could say, despite anything we may do or say. God acts...and God acts out of God's love for us.
Connection: It doesn't take much to make a day go sour. What if we would make sure that in each of our days we would take the time to remind ourselves and others that it brings pleasure to our God that we are called God's children...by choice. God is not stuck with us...God longs for us like a parent who embraces a beloved child. That love never goes sour.
Praise be to you O God, for there is no day in which we left to ourselves. You abide with us and the Holy Spirit encourages us to find peace in the blessed assurance that we are your beloved in Christ Jesus. Amen.
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