What, Me an Enemy?

Wednesday, October 18, 2017

Romans 5:10: For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, now that we are reconciled, shall we be saved by his life.

The word, "enemy" brings up some really nasty images. Pictures like, planes into towers, nuclear bombs being dropped, slogging through jungles, and baking in deserts. The word, "enemy" brings up other images, such as hate filled protests, random shooting into crowds, and disrespect for people in authority. Those are easy. The next image, not so much.

To see who is an enemy, all you need to do is look in the mirror. Paul is very clear. We were enemies of God. We are good people. We have good families. We hide that we're really despondent. We hide that we are struggling with sins by putting on a "happy face." We are struggling with relationships and yet show the world that all's good. And we, along with all people everywhere in every situation, need Jesus who reconciles, or re-connects, us to the Father by the giving up of His body and the shedding of His blood. God loves us that much. Jesus converts enemies to allies. Because of Jesus we are on God's side. His grace and love makes that happen.

And it is God's love that causes the faith to believe in Him and trust in His saving grace. It is God's love that lifts us from life's "stuff." When we believe, God's power and strength, love and grace, is there to empower us from despondency. When we believe, God's power and strength, love and grace is there for us to resist sin and cling to Jesus and His righteousness. When we believe, God's power and strength, love and grace is there so that forgiveness and love is the foundation of our families. We are saved by Jesus' life. Dear God, remind us always of Your love and reconciling ways, Amen.