We are now in a devotional journey focused around portions of Carl E. Braaten’s book “Justification.”
Of all the gifts which the living God gives to us, surely the greatest is expressed by the words, “forgiveness of sins,” because this gift touches us at the point of our greatest need. Our greatest human need is reconciliation with God from whom we are estranged. We need fellowship with God our Creator through Christ our Redeemer. Forgiveness of sins is God’s act in Christ…
In a world that is always running on the power of what we are able to do for ourselves…or what we are able to gain for ourselves, God invites us into a contrary existence – one that begins with God’s action on our behalf. There may all sorts of ways in which we are locked within our brokenness, but through the adventure of Christ, Jesus, we are placed within a free space and time in which no brokenness in our lives can have power over us. Therefore, our lives are created anew by our God who forgives us. In that new creation is the power to live a new life that comes into existence out of God’s gracious action not out of what we have been in the past. What a gift we are invited to trust!
Connection: Is there baggage from your past that is prohibiting you to be a new creation in Christ? If so, remember this gift and get ready to let go of the baggage.
Forgiving God it is by your mercy that our lives have a fresh point of reference each day. Keep us mindful of your love and the power that is ours within this day by way of your love. Amen.
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