Day 1: The Redeemer of Mankind
1 Peter 1:18–19
Christ’s blood deals with our real needs, bringing forth a way of being human that is characterized by freedom—freedom from the unbearable burden of trying to revert, by our own perishable means, the awful consequences of trespassing our very humanity when we disobeyed God.
Jesus, through His priceless and unfading blood, has secured our freedom, our safety, and our soul’s deepest satisfaction. When Jesus stood in my place, I, too, was crucified—my sin was judged, my shame covered, and my fear silenced. And in Him, I, too, was raised to a new kind of life. The striving of the old life—to earn, to repay, to prove—has become obsolete. Christ’s blood paid for our redemption, buying that which was lost, returning such to its original owner. That truth shook the first century world to its core. People asked, “Can this really be? Can someone truly take another’s place and bear their punishment?” It sounded too good to be true, and yet it is!
Christ’s finished work allows us to stop relying on ourselves, resting instead in the One who took our place, being thus fully convinced that doing so is infinitely better than trying to feel valuable and safe on our own—either by trying harder to be “good” (religion) or by trying harder to be sufficient (non-religion). The gospel’s invitation to accept the loving offer of Jesus taking our place is the best news ever heard by human ears.
Reflection Prayer
Abba, You say that my value comes from being created by You in Your image. That’s why You love me unconditionally. That doesn’t mean that Your love has nothing to do with me, but that it doesn’t depend on any act on my part. I am intrinsically valuable by the sole fact that You created me with that value. I am worth so much that when You lost me, You sent Your Son to look for me. He bought me back for Yourself and gave me back what my own sin took from me. Thank You, Abba. Amen.
Week 1: Christ Our Savior
Colossians 1:13
As we focus on the life of Christ, this week’s theme is Christ Our Savior, which forms part of the fourfold gospel of Jesus, a cornerstone of our denomination. God’s plan for salvation commenced immediately following the fall of mankind in the Garden of Eden. The consequence of sin is death; however, it was not God’s intention for humanity to endure eternal death. Out of His love for the world, He sent His only Son, Jesus, to die on our behalf, allowing us to attain salvation and reconciliation with Him. Salvation can only be obtained through Jesus Christ, as there is no other name by which humanity is saved. Furthermore, our salvation is not achieved through good works, but rather through the righteousness of Jesus, imparted by faith and through the grace of God.
Reflection Questions
Do you believe Jesus has paid your debts in full, or do you still struggle with earning your salvation?
How often have you shared this truth with those close to you who need salvation?
What is your personal salvation story and experience?