I opened my New Living Translation Bible today and my eyes fell on the words of Paul to the Corinthians, (2 Cor. 5:14-15) and I felt the grace of God shine in me that my task is to spread the Good News that All are called to redemption.
But more than that, we are called to die to the ways of the past, to renew ourselves not only for our salvation but for the salvation of others. I also read the end of the passage (2 Cor 6:1-2) and put the two of them into my mind as one thought and one message of God.
“Since we believe that Christ died for everyone, we also believe that we have all died to the old life we used to live. He died for everyone so that those who received His new life will no longer live to please themselves. Instead, they will live to please Christ, who died and was raised again.” And, “As God’s partners, we beg you not to reject this marvelous message of God’s great kindness. For God says, ‘At the right time, I heard you. On the day of salvation, I helped you.’ Indeed, God is ready to help you right now. Today is the day of Salvation.”
Do not reject this message of God’s kindness, that we are to put away the things of old that destroy life and put on the cloak of kindness and redemption that withstands the bolts and slings of the enemy of life. We are to die to the ways of the self serving flesh and live a new life of kindness that all might see the True Grace of God within us. Put to death the old sinful ways and grasp onto the the new life of resurrection. Paul urges us, as though Christ were pleading with our hearts, to be reconciled with the Father. And that reconciliation is not just for a moment but for our life time. We are to live close to God by our living in grace, giving grace and compassion to all that all may receive His new life.
As we approach the celebration of the death and Resurrection of our Lord, Jesus, let us take to heart the purpose of that sacrifice. Jesus died for everyone! By our words, actions and intention, we either bring others to Christ or we drive them away. If we continue to life in the selfish ways of Satan, we fail Faith and Christ. If we live that others will see the mercy and graciousness of God, we win souls to God. Paul also says the he tried to live in such a way as not to hinder anyone from finding the Lord. If our lives are lived in the same manner as Christ Jesus, we will not hinder others but lead them to Salvation. Speak with kindness and with mercy so that even those who fear and despise us can find no fault with us.
Be the tools of Christ, be the instruments of His Love. Endure the hardships with joy and defeat the goals of the enemy of Salvation, Satan. God is ready to help you in every cirumstance, RIGHT NOW! Ask him and you will recieve his guidence and his intervention, so that you will not sin nor reject His will.
