Tuesday, August 31, 2021
Today’s Scripture
Today’s Author
Tony Sundermeier
One of the fundamental convictions of our faith and life together flows from Ephesians 2. It is the cornerstone idea that we are saved by grace through faith. In other words, reconciliation with God and with one another is a gift of God both in this age and in the age to come. It is something God inspires, and God empowers through the Holy Spirit. And we receive this gift in faith. Faith here is not necessarily synonymous with belief. Rather, it finds its parallel in the word, “trust.” We trust that God’s grace is sufficient for us.
But there is more to the story. Will Willimon says it like this:
Grace is more than some benign, sweet syrup poured over us by a God who only says, “I love you just as you are; promise me you won't change a thing.” Holiness of heart and life demonstrates to the world that Christ is able to not only love us as we are but also change us into what he would have us be. Holiness is Christ not only forgiving our sin but also redeeming us and utilizing us for his work in the world. In other words, holiness is God's grace in action, enlisting us to work for God's will in the world.
In other words, God’s grace is not stale or stagnant. It is active in our lives, and it moves us to a life of piety, obedience, and holiness. Grace inspires us and moves us toward missional action which is rooted in the three loves: love of God, love of self, and love of others. May grace be for us more than just religious speak. May it motivate us toward mission and toward love.
Summer Devotional
God Goes With Us
This summer’s devotional is a walk through the Bible. Join our pastors and staff for daily reflections on scripture passages from Genesis to Revelation. In the beginning, God said, “I will be your God and you will be my people.” Come and see how this covenant promise changes through time yet remains steadfast from generation to generation.
Each Sunday, Chris Holmes will share a short message on the texts for the week, and written reflections will go out every Monday through Thursday morning.
We wish you blessings and deeper faith this summer!
