Hello there
Only recently a devotional from another site challenged me to consider whether Jesus Christ was Number One in my life. While thinking through the reality, I was drawn to the many reasons why Jesus should have that top spot. Included in those was none other than Today’s Holy Nougat™
And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven. Colossians 1:20 KJV
Reconciliation is no easy feat. I know. I’ve been on all FIVE sides of that fence. Yes, FIVE.
The Wronged
The Uninvolved
The Perpetuator
The Mediator
The Guilty/Accused Party
But from a spiritual perspective, I’ve really only been in ONE spot. In the presence of God, my sins convict me and guilt about the ways I’ve Wronged God created a chasm as I come to grips with the reality that I’m Guilty. And in those moments, the Perpetuator tries to remind me of my sin. However, through Jesus Christ my Mediator, I’m brought back into right relationship with God and peace is restored once again.
As I write I’m struck by the fact that as followers of Christ, we’re each of us called to a ministry of reconciliation in response to Christ’s salvific work in our lives. For, when the Sinless One loses His life and returns from the grave to heal the rift between ourselves and God; how can we even for a moment entertain enmity with others?!
For if we harbor ill will against the Guilty Party (as I’m oft tempted to) or become Uninvolved; have we not placed Jesus in a secondary position and the grudge in the first?
I’m choosing today to ignore the Perpetuator and to listen to the Mediator. And I guess that by challenging us all, I’m not taking on the role of the Uninvolved.
Who/What has first place in your life? Is it time for a change as we enter this season of Advent? Selah
In Christ’s love and grace . . .
