Galatians 3:23-29 The Voice (VOICE)
Yesterday, we shared a mission outreach to the residents at Oak Tree ALF. It was such a special time. They were so very appreciative of the gifts we brought, the refreshments we served, and the songs we shared to celebrate Christmas with them. Our gifts were socks and slippers. We had to do a little shuffling with sizes, but eventually I think everyone received a pair of slippers and socks that fit him or her. Getting the right size is important; enclosed toe and heel slippers must fit each individual’s feet.
Salvation is one gift that fits every believer; one size fits all hearts. To be saved means to be born from above—to make room in our hearts for the Anointed One. To be born from above is to be spiritually transformed and set apart for God’s purposes as his children. Therefore, we take on Christ’s characteristics and values with our lives. At Christmas, we tend to focus on tangible gifts, but the best gift you can give your friends and loved ones is Christ in you. Love them the way Christ loves you. Treat them with kindness and patience as you share time. Forgive others who have hurt you; honestly, forgiveness is a gift you give to yourself. Be subject to His power, because Christ wants to touch other lives through you and he values people and relationships.
Galatians 3:23-29
23 Before faith came on the scene, the law did its best to keep us in line, restraining us until the faith that was to come was fully revealed. 24 So then, the law was like a tutor, assigned to train us and point us to the Anointed, so that we will be acquitted of all wrong and made right by faith. 25 But now that true faith has come, we have no need for a tutor. 26 It is your faith in the Anointed Jesus that makes all of you children of God 27 because all of you who have been initiated into the Anointed One through the ceremonial washing of baptism have put Him on. 28 It makes no difference whether you are a Jew or a Greek, a slave or a freeman, a man or a woman, because in Jesus the Anointed, the Liberating King, you are all one. 29 Since you belong to Him and are now subject to His power, you are the descendant of Abraham and the heir of God’s glory according to the promise.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for the generous love and kindness you always extend to me. In fact, the love and kindness you give me is always the perfect fit. Your saving care is the answer to my longing heart this Christmas. In Jesus’ name. Amen.