“In Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ. He himself is our peace.” Eph. 2:13-14
Lord Jesus, at Christmas we celebrate your journey from the far-ness of eternity to the near-ness of the manger. But you don’t leave us “cooing” over your crib, but worshipping you for your empty cross, empty tomb, and occupied throne—(a most glorious triad!)
We now live under this grand declaration, “No condemnation for your sin remains” (Rom. 8:1). Robed in your righteousness, we joyfully sing, “His banner over me is love!” (Song of Songs 2:4). We are deeply loved, and we’re also clearly called.
You call us to live at peace with all people—”as far as it depends on us” (Rom. 12:18)—to love others as you love us, period. This is going to be more important than ever in 2022. We can’t make anybody “happy or holy,” and shouldn’t try. But we can/must love everyone “as unto you”—as an act of worship, obedience, and faith (Col. 3:23-24).
This side of the new heaven and new earth, we won’t have conflict-absent relationships. But we’ll always have Christ-present days, and sufficient grace to cover the cost of loving well.
None of our relationships are beyond the need or reach of your grace. “Love never fails,” because of your empty cross, empty tomb, and occupied throne … (Oh, that glorious triad!) So Very Amen.