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.
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