Reflection, Dec. 17, 2006

Reflection, Dec. 17, 2006

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As one of the on-going ministries of Chi Rho Press, here is a selection from our book of daily devotions, "Living as the Beloved: One Day at a Time," by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok.

Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's meditation. We hope you will be blessed.

Thank you for forwarding this to your friends.

God has a big eraser

"As it is written in the book of the words of the prophet Isaiah,
'The voice of one crying out in the wilderness:
"Prepare the way of the Lord,
make his paths straight.
Every valley shall be filled,
and every mountain and hill shall be made low,
and the crooked shall be made straight,
and the rough ways made smooth;
and all flesh shall see the salvation of God."'"
Luke 3:4-6

Is it a bit odd to think about God's judgment on the world so soon before Christmas? Yet Advent (the four weeks preceding Christmas) is historically a time where Christians are called to prepare for Christ's second return. Since the beginning of the Christian Church, people have been urged to turn from their sins in repentance, and live better lives in preparation for that great and terrible future day of divine judgment.

Repentance is an unpopular word, but it is important for our spiritual health. We need to turn away from what is offensive to God, and turn to God in contrition and humility. Repentance involves an inner change in attitude. It is when we repent that we submit to God without excuse. We need to call sin, sin. Sin is offensive to God. The Bible tells us the effects of sin are deadly.

Repentance takes courage. Honesty is always the best policy with God. Remember that repentance turns us towards God. It is a continuous, daily lifestyle. We are to be like Jesus in word and deed. New life in Christ calls us to daily holiness. We are to be new creations in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17-21). God wishes to transform us from the inside out (Romans 12:1, 2).

God is eager to forgive when we admit our failings. Forgiveness is a wonderful gift through Jesus Christ. What a wonderful Christmas gift!

The babe in the manger came to erase our sins. Here is the meaning of Christmas. Christ came to destroy sin and the power of sin in the world. This is why the baby grew up and died on the cross. Someday he will return in power and glory. Until that day, cultivate the mind and heart of Christ in daily living. Err on the side of human kindness and compassion. Confess sin and call it what God calls it.

God is in the business of helping sinners become saints. God is eager to erase sin from our lives.

Lord, make me more like Yourself, less like myself. Amen.

Grace and peace,

Chi Rho Press

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