A New Life, A New Way
It was a full day today. We had some work done at the house first thing this morning and then after some early morning duties in the office, I joined some fellow ministers in Northern Colorado for an annual meeting in Windsor. It was good to see many friends that I have not seen for a while and to learn of those who have been praying for us and following my progress.
I had a dentist appointment and found that I do need a filling and a crown. Nothing too urgent but considering almost five months of hospitalization does not promote good oral health, I am glad that I have done as well as I have.
This afternoon when I arrived home, I completed my registration to become a “professional lobbyist.” Now I just need to get some clients and see if I can get back into some earned income.
BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “…we have been made holy through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all…by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body…let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings….” (Hebrews 10:10,20,22)
In my Bible reading program I have finished Leviticus and then went onto read Hebrews. It is interesting to read those two books in succession. Some years ago a friend who was reading through the Bible for the first time commented about the impact of reading those two books one after the other. That made me consider the contrast the the writer of Hebrews draws between the “old covenant” and the “new covenant.”
The Old Testament law contained the regulations of sacrifices and offerings and the conduct that was vital to have relationship with a Holy God. But scripture is clear that those sacrifices were “reminders of their sin” (Hebrews 10:3). The law was also used as a “schoolmaster to bring us to Christ.” (Galatians 3:24)
When Jesus came He fulfilled the role of Priest and sacrifice together. In His role as priest (one who stand between the people and God) Christ “lives to make intercession for us.” Hebrews says this is the result, “…he [Jesus] is able to save to the uttermost those who draw near to God through him, since he always lives to make intercession for them.” (Hebrews 7:25)
The simple assurance is when we draw near to God, “He draws near to us.” (James 4:8) No more sacrifices, no more questions about our status with God. Christ through His life fulfilled the law and through His sacrifice provided forgiveness of sins for all who believe.
We believe, we belong to God’s family, walking in relationship with Him and others and we become, what He has planned for us to become. We live life with a new purpose and a new destiny.