The opening piece is from “Union with Christ” – The New Finnish Interpretation of Luther. Let’s give it a try.
According to the Reformer, justifying faith does not merely signify a reception of the forgiveness imputed to a human being for the sake of the merit of Christ… Being a real sharing (participation) in Christ, “faith” stands also for participation in the institution of “blessing, righteousness and life” that has taken place in Christ. Christ himself is life, righteousness, and blessing, because God is all of this “by nature and in substance.” Therefore, justifying faith means participation in God in Christ’s person.
Yesterday in the sermon I opened up the notion that we must always go back to Jesus. Look at his faithfulness to God’s will. Look at his day to day adventures in real life situations. When we do that, and when we call ourselves followers of Jesus who are justified by faith in him, we not only look on at Jesus, we are a part of that faithfulness. Being a part of that faithfulness, we also take part in the wonderful gracious reign of God. It is a full participation…a gift…and…a life.
Connection: Participate in the life Christ brings to us today. This need not be some heady adventure. It may be as simple as re-viewing what is at hand through a look back at God’s love in Christ, Jesus…and then…participating in the love…right now.
Lord, you invite us to be one with you. Sometime we may not be sure of how that takes place. By the power of your Holy Spirit, lead us and guide us through this day. Amen.
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