For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit: — 1 Peter 3:18

Don’t you think that sounds so simple and easy? like the headline in the newspaper about a stranger’s death. Simple, straight-forward facts! But we know that’s not true. Behind this claim of grace are hidden God’s broken heart, heaven’s sacrifice, the harshness of people who say they are religious, and the never-ending love of our God, who would not leave us to the cruel “Deathmaster.” This passage is more than just a catchphrase for people who have been through animal sacrifice, with its high human cost and animal sacrifices. It is a “graceline.” There is no need to make any more sacrifices; it’s over. Bring you close to God and get rid of any obstacles and middlemen that are in the way. Jesus is the open door and open heart of heaven, calling you home because we’ve been waiting for you.

 

Thought

Don’t you think that sounds so simple and easy? like the headline in the newspaper about a stranger’s death. Simple, straight-forward facts! But we know that’s not true. Behind this claim of grace are hidden God’s broken heart, heaven’s sacrifice, the harshness of people who say they are religious, and the never-ending love of our God, who would not leave us to the cruel “Deathmaster.” This passage is more than just a catchphrase for people who have been through animal sacrifice, with its high human cost and animal sacrifices. It is a “graceline.” There is no need to make any more sacrifices; it’s over. Bring you close to God and get rid of any obstacles and middlemen that are in the way. Jesus is the open door and open heart of heaven, calling you home because we’ve been waiting for you.

 

Prayer

What can I say, kind father, to show how grateful I am for all you’ve done? I can’t find the right words to say how I feel. Even though I know this, I am sure that you understand what I say and how I feel because of the gift of your Spirit. Because of your grace, I have everything that is good and lasts. Please accept my sincere thanks and love for who you are, what you’ve done, and what you’ll do in the future. In Jesus’ precious name I pray. Amen.