Nougat 20

Hi

You had to have gone to my high school in my era to be familiar (to the point of being able to quote in your sleep) with the song, ‘I’m born again I feel free …’ My dears, it was the go to anthem along with, ‘It only takes a spark’ and the hymn, ‘Wonderful Words of Life’. Our voices would echo in the auditorium as we sang, words tripping over each other; with many of us – Christian and non-Christian – unable to fully grasp the significance of what we sang. We were just relieved that we had a backup song when we hadn’t prepared for morning devotions.

But there’s far more to being born again than mere words to an ABBA hit (which they might not have grasped either …) consider today’s Holy Nougat

“For you have been born again, but not to a life that will quickly end. Your new life will last forever because it comes from the eternal, living word of God.” 1 Peter‬ ‭1:23‬ ‭NLT‬‬

This was the key to Nicodemus’ quest – the realization that a sacrificed life Begins and Ends with Christ. Thus, since Christ reigns eternal, the life born anew IN Him (Christ Jesus) takes on His eternity characteristics.

So while we’re here together, tell ourselves this – can we genuinely think eternity? A never-ending season of praise in worship. Are we ready for ongoing living of some of our not-so-fun habits – perhaps not. And that’s why we’re rooted IN Christ and not ourselves. For a life in Christ takes on the mindset that considers the long-term impact of our actions. On our own lives, as well as on the lives of others.

We also find that our desire is to please God, not others. So, while we obey earthly laws, we recognize that what we do is for God’s glory and not our own. And that we operate, not in our natural strength, gifts or abilities; but in Christ’s. Now those are great places to be!

Might I encourage us to renew our covenant with Christ today. For God’s sake – right on to eternity.

In Christ’s love and grace . . .