Salvation
As you read the Lectionary for this third week of Advent consider reading two bible versions and if possible let one of them be from The Message.
The people of Israel in the Old Testament did not have a Messiah as yet. Yes, they had many great leaders and Prophets. But God was the only one they could turn to for Salvation. This is all God wanted them to do from the very moment humans were created that is look to him, trust in him. But as we know this didn’t happen! Over many years they looked for other idols to trust in or worship or turn to for help. The theme of salvation can be seen in both Zephaniah and Isaiah.
Zephaniah 3:16-17 (the Message)
Jerusalem will be told: “Don’t be afraid. Dear Zion, don’t despair. Your God is present among you, a strong Warrior there to save you. Happy to have you back, he’ll calm you with his love and delight you with his songs
Isaiah 12:2 (The Message)
“Yes, indeed—God is my salvation. I trust, I won’t be afraid. God—yes God!—is my strength and song, best of all, my salvation!”
We are still children of God whom we look to for help. But we now have Jesus Christ as our means of Salvation. When John the Baptist was at the River Jordan baptizing the people, he was upset with them for many were just doing it because it was popular. (Luke 3:7-20) He let them know that he was only there cleansing them with water. But that there was another to fill them with the Holy Spirit. And that their life would be changed. John also let them know how they/we should be treating each other (Luke 3:10-14) Share what we have, do not take advantage of others. Be satisfied with what we have.
When we let Christ the Messiah be our salvation we need to let others know this message. Let them see how Christ has changed our life. Let our light shine for all to see.
Philippines 4:4-5 (NRSV)
4Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. 5 Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near.
Pray;
God I love you and thank you for your unconditional love, for your guidance. There are times I fail you but you are there welcoming me back to your open arms. Father thank you for your son Jesus Christ whom you sent to be our Salvation, who you sacrificed on the cross to save us. Christ is my guide my Redeemer of whom I accept. Father help me to show the way to others so they may feel your redeeming love and trust in you through Jesus.
Let peace, which surpasses all understanding, guard our hearts and our minds through Christ Jesus.(Phil 4:7)
Amen,
Fred Herr
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