We continue a devotional journey focused around portions of Carl E. Braaten’s book “Justification.”
It is truly liberating to know that there is simply nothing in a person that can provide the basis for standing justified before God. Yet justification happens, received through faith alone and solely on account of Christ.
This is such a simple and yet profound statement. “Yet justification happens…” I immediately thought of the bumper sticker “shit happens” or another one “Grace happens.” Justification is all about God. Along with that, our response…the faith part…is even all about God. Only by the power of the Holy Spirit do we have the ability to trust what God does for us in the first place. Talk about a one sided action! Justification happens! When we turn our backs to it and insist on other ways to be somebody, justification still happens. We cannot make the action of God null and void. It happens! Sure, we can turn our backs to it…but that doesn’t do away with God’s action. We can also say it another way. Justification is not only directed toward me. It happens for “them.” Yes, “them.” You know who I’m referring to…them…him…her…that way of living…those who do that…dem dare folk who are like “dat.” However we may say it and want to make God’s justification a limited affair that will meet our expectations and view of what is to be, justification happens. And with that action by God, there is the beginning of a whole new reality…the old is no more…the new is shaped by God.
Connection: I judge too quickly and pick to readily. It is good to be able to weight the worth of ideas and opinions and actions of people…but when I move into the domain of judging the worth of a person, I step beyond what is given to me. God already has judged us…all of us…as beloved. My task this day is to be blessed with the insight by God to see that worth…that beloved ness in those around me…even…them.
Connect us Lord. Connect us to those from whom we would rather be separated. Connect us by the power of your Holy Spirit so that somehow…in a way beyond our understanding, we may be a part of you glorious and gracious Reign that keeps bringing to life that which is not yet. Amen.
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