Your Identity in Christ
In Christ I am reconciled to God the Father with all sins forgiven and I gladly serve as an ambassador for Christ to help others be reconciled to God and one another.
This is who you are as disciples, reflected in the words above and from 2 Corinthians:
2 Corinthians 5:20
We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God.
Yesterday, we focused on the mission of God. Today we see our identity linked to that mission. Go and make disciples of all nations Jesus told the original disciples. The Jews were to include the Gentiles, specifically Samaritans (Acts 1:8, 8:5) their long-time enemies and despisers of the Jews.
Pondering Point
Did you know that Jesus’ death was not just to bring reconciliation between man and God, but also between man and man? Its right there in Ephesians 2:14-16:
Ephesians 2:14-16
He himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, by setting aside in his flesh the law with its commands and regulations. His purpose was to create in himself one new humanity out of the two, thus making peace, and in one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility.
In light of these verses, we should, at a minimum, have no hostility towards others – and maximally, be working to bring peace among others as well. And keep in mind that this is not peace by the world’s standards, but by God’s standards.
Prayer
Father God, though I cannot likely be at peace with everyone, I pray that You help me avoid the guilt of allowing conflict to persist unnecessarily. Keep me humble and forgiving. I also ask that You prepare the hearts of others with whom I seek peace to be humble and forgiving. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
Micro-Meditation
Psalm 119: Immersed in the Word of God
Psalm 119:105-112 14th letter: Nuun (נ)
- Your word is a lamp for my feet,
a light on my path. - I have taken an oath and confirmed it,
that I will follow your righteous laws. - I have suffered much;
preserve my life, Lord, according to your word. - Accept, Lord, the willing praise of my mouth,
and teach me your laws. - Though I constantly take my life in my hands,
I will not forget your law. - The wicked have set a snare for me,
but I have not strayed from your precepts. - Your statutes are my heritage forever;
they are the joy of my heart. - My heart is set on keeping your decrees
to the very end.
Read the verses of the Psalm.
Mark the words or phrases that catch your attention.
Meditate: talk (or better, write) with God about those words. Ask him to impress things upon your heart and mind; expect responses.
Teaching or Command of God
1 Peter 4:16
If you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name.
The Promise
2 Corinthians 12:9
My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.
Pondering Point
The author reflects back to a promise from God. With willful words of praise, he turns to God for help again. Don’t miss this lesson in suffering: Turn to God, recall His promises, praise Him, and look for His lesson.