Saturday after Trinity 11, 8/21/1999

 

2 Corinthians 5: 18, 19a All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting men's sins against them. --NIV

In the name of the One Who reconciles us to God, amen.

There are times when we do not feel forgiven. There are times when we feel as if our sins are too great for God to forgive. We feel alone, and as if we of all people are not eligible to be saved.

But in this passage we see that Christ's work was for the world. Salvation is for all people. Yes, it is true that many reject the salvation offered them in Christ Jesus, but if you wonder, if you are concerned about your salvation, then remember that Jesus' sacrifice is for you. By His death on the cross your sins are paid atoned for.

Dr. Luther had an interesting thought regarding this truth. He said that he was glad that Holy Scripture stated that Christ died for the world, because if it said He died for Martin Luther, he could never be certain if that meant him, or if there might be some other Martin Luther. No, Scripture says Jesus died for the world, and since we are part of the world, He must have died for us. There can be no greater assurance than that. Amen.

Prayer:

Dear heavenly Father, we thank You that You love the World enough to sacrifice Your Son for it. Help us by Your Holy Spirit to always trust in that sacrifice for us, amen.