EAGER EXPECTATION

The creation waits in eager expectation for the sons of God to be revealed. Romans 8:19(NIV)

It has always amazed me how Apostle Paul was given such insights to write the things he did in the New Testament. Romans 8:18-27 is one shining example. I sat down to attempt describing what that passage means. Here is the comforting and exciting result:

This passage encompasses the whole true perspective of our lives—that is, of those who believe in and follow Christ Jesus. We have a personal relationship with each person of the Trinity, and this passage tells of the significance of those relationships.

It begins on a grand, infinite scale—all of creation! Creation is waiting in “eager expectation” for us to be revealed as the sons (and daughters) of God. That is amazing in itself. I am reminded of my human birth. My mother and father sent announcements to their family and friends, and they all celebrated. Will God be pleased to announce me as His son?  

It speaks of creation’s liberation from “bondage to decay” (for us, sin and death). Then we will be brought into “glorious freedom of the children of God.” Now, with the indwelling Holy Spirit that Jesus has given each of us, we have a taste of the first-fruits. But beyond that we have hope for a far greater future. We wait for it patiently with “eager expectation.” In the face of such great anticipation we don’t really know how to pray, but the Holy Spirit helps us and also intercedes for us in accordance with God’s will.

Through Paul, God has given us assurance that He will be pleased to claim us and announce us to all creation. Wow! I can hardly wait!

Lord, It’s wonderful to be your child!

© 2018 Parker Wayland

THE HEART OF JESUS

Jesus replied, “All who love me will do what I say. My Father will love them, and we will come and make our home with each of them.” John 14:23 (NLT)

Recently, I had my hair appointment with the same hair dresser of seventeen years. We have gotten to know each other through our visits and we always catch up on how our families are doing. Pete told me he has not seen his granddaughter for the past six weeks. I asked him why.  He explained his wife of 12 years and his grown son who is thirty are at odds with each other.  Pete’s wife believes her stepson and his wife do not like nor show her any respect. They do not even address her by any name. Her feelings are hurt and she has dug her heels in and wants an apology. 

Meanwhile, the stepson does not feel they have done anything wrong and refuses to apologize. Pete is very disturbed by this. He just wants peace and to see his granddaughter, who has just turned one year old. I too being a peacemaker can understand both sides.

As a daughter of God, I desire to do His will each day. The Holy Spirit prompted me to share a fresh perspective on this situation with Pete. I explained, “Because of my faith, everything I see and hear goes through the heart of Jesus. He has taught us to forgive just as He forgives us. If your wife or your son would consider God’s teaching to forgive, they may be able to find peace.” Pete was encouraged to share this perspective and hopeful they may find resolution and healing.

Father, thank you for giving me the opportunity to bring You Glory through my response.

© 2018 Marianne Lucot

AN INDIVIDUAL MATTER

The fool says in his heart, there is no God. Psalm 14:1(NIV)

 

Yet my beloved country, the United States of America, seldom recognizes or acknowledge God in its public and legal policies and discussions. Are we really a nation of fools? Sometimes it would appear so.

 

The principle of freedom of religion is affirmed in our constitution. This is right and good. God does not want people to honor Him because they are forced to. That is no basis for the kind of loving relationship He desires. People of many backgrounds come to the United States seeking religious and other kinds of freedom. Atheists, Muslims, Hindus and others—all are welcome just as Jesus stretches out his hands of welcome to all people.

 

It is the task of those who are disciples of Jesus—not secular media or the government, to share and teach His love. We, not the media, must give glory to God in our interactions with people. We, not the government, must gracefully lift up the Bible as the source of truth. We, not only the government, must adopt biblical moral standards for our lives. We, not the government, must share the truth of the gospel with those who haven’t heard or adopted it.

 

Thus the issue of honoring God for who He is becomes an individual matter. The actions of our government can honor God only as they flow from the individuals that make policy and decisions of the government. God works through the actions of individuals—His disciples.

 

Lord, give the United States governing officials and citizens who will honor and love You and are eager to be guided by Your wisdom in all they say and do. Amen.

 

© 2018 Parker Wayland