We continue a devotional journey focused around portions of Carl E. Braaten’s book “Justification.”
Four points about the reality known as “the gospel” will make up the rest of the week (today is 4 of 4).
Fourth, the gospel is a promise. …it is not a promise in a synergistic sense that if only you first do your part, God promises to reciprocate. The gospel is not only a promise of future hope, but also a proclamation of present grace. The gospel tells us that God both makes and keeps his promises for us and for Christ’s sake alone.
In the rite of Holy Baptism, this notion of promise comes through in several ways. One that is always powerful for me is when the presiding minister traces the sign of the cross on the forehead of the person who has been baptized. While doing that s/he says: “ _____ child of God, you have been sealed by the Holy Spirit and marked with the cross of Christ forever.” The gospel as promise is a “forever” promise. It is not determined by the life of the baptized. It is an action by God…a mark that will not and cannot be removed. We are claimed. We may live a life that is quite contrary to that claim but our life does not negate the fact that God keeps God’s promises for Christ’s sake alone.
Connection: Today is another day within that powerful and graceful time of God’s Reign. We are stepping out into that domain called the alpha and the omega – it always is and will be a time when God is for us…even unto death. That announcement can transform and renew any life at any time.
In hope we trust your word of grace, O Lord, for some days seem to look as though there is no grace and there is no sign of your everlasting Reign. Encourage us to rise up this day filled by your love. Amen.
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