Devotional 3-14-10

From now on, therefore, we regard no one from a human point of view; even though we once knew Christ from a human point of view, we know him no longer in that way. So if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation; everything old has passed away; see, everything has become new! All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation; that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting the message of reconciliation to us. So we are ambassadors for Christ, since God is making his appeal through us; we entreat you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.

For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. (II Corinthians 5:16-21) NRSV

When you read this scripture, who comes to mind? Whose lives speak the language of this “new creation” in Christ? How did their fire start? What draws you to their warmth? Why do you just want to be in their presence and learn why they look at life differently?

Our congregation is blessed with many whose lives speak to the rest of us about their relationships with God through Christ – about their being “new creations.” I’m sure every life’s story is different. Some have held on by their fingernails and faith. Some have met Christ, and simply blossomed. Some can identify their transformation and reconciliation as falling somewhere between these two extremes. But the blessing they all offer us as a result of their love and faith is the reality of kingdom of God – here – now – being lived out in front of us!

They’re holding the door open for us to come in from the cold; to hear their stories and feel the warmth of God’s love, to experience the freedom found in the Good News of Jesus Christ. Don’t you want to go in? I know I do – and I’m sure we will all be welcomed as beloved members of His family.

Father, we offer thanks for those whose hearts speak Your love to our hearts. May we learn to share as they have shared. May we be willing to serve as they have served. And may we see You in the faces we encounter each day, knowing You love us all simply, ferociously, unconditionally. In the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, Amen.

Linda Summers