The whole Bible, but especially the New Testament, and particularly our readings for today, emphasize the freedom that comes through relationship with Jesus Christ. Freedom to experience the love and grace of God. Even when we are possessed by demons, or live in the wrong place, or do the wrong things.
Great sins. Great repentance. Great forgiveness.
But that is what Jesus was about. Breaking down the “shoulds.” Bringing forth life and hope on the way to the grave. If Jesus can bring life and hope on the way to the grave – then Jesus can bring life and hope on every other way.
Have you ever watched ski jumping at the Winter Olympics? The competitor is perched high up on top of the jump, without any poles. He or she seems right on the edge of the platform, rocking back and forth, and then – pushes off. As lovely a view as it may be, they can’t stay…
God’s word is always a promise – a statement that something will definitely happen – a promise of better times ahead, of closeness, of grace.
God’s promises of love and forgiveness and heaven are for us, for you and me. Maybe a good New Year’s resolution would be to remember that.
A Savior Comes – what, you’ve heard the story before?