The opening piece is from “Union with Christ” – The New Finnish Interpretation of Luther.
This is the next to last devotions from this resource.
Luther’s doctrine of justification contains a conception originating in the mystical tradition that a Christian might be caught up (raptus) in Christ. It means not only that a Christian is joined with Christ but that he is in this union transformed into a likeness of Christ. This change is a process, and it creates in the Christian the same form (forma) as Christ.
So whenever you hear that popular word the “rapture” among some portions in the Church, don’t think in terms of those “Left Behind” books. Think…caught up as a reality that we live here. We are caught up and live in union with Christ. There is no flying away. There is a staying in place and living as fully as Christ…here and now…for our living is caught up in reign of Christ, Jesus. Don’t fall for the stories that tell of an end in which some will be “caught up” and removed from this world. Instead, be caught up in that story that tells of Jesus, the beloved child of God, who does not fly away but stays with us unto death…all the way, for this is the life God created for us. There is nothing about our created humanity from which we must run. Rather, we are called to be caught up in its fullness as it comes to life in Christ.
Connection: So, how will you be caught up within the life of Jesus today?
Lord God, when you bless us, it is for life. Continue to shower upon us the beautiful reign of your Beloved, Jesus, and pull us into his story of life. Amen.
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