February 2 -- "Shedding the Old Self"

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Read Galatians 2

To live by faith in Christ means more than simply a passive faith. It means that we no longer live for ourselves. Instead, Christ lives in us, transforming our actions and giving us a new purpose. 

In today's verse, Paul reveals a profound spiritual truth: our old self, once bound by sin, has been crucified with Christ. This signifies that we share in Christ's death and resurrection, finding our identity and purpose in Him.

When you place your trust in Jesus, you become united with Him in a profound way. This union includes sharing in His death and resurrection. Just as Christ died for sin, your old self—enslaved by sin—has been put to death with Him. This concept is often referred to as "dying to self" or "crucifying the flesh." It means abandoning old ways of thinking and living, and adopting a new life centered on Christ and His righteousness. 

This is an ongoing process, as we continuously shed the old self and embrace the new self in Christ.  Abandoning old ways of thinking and living involves letting go of habits, behaviors, and mindsets that are not aligned with your faith and values, such as self-centeredness, sinful habits, negative thinking, unforgiveness, fear, and worry.

This doesn't imply that we become perfect or sinless. Rather, it means that sin no longer has control over us. Although we may still experience desires that conflict with our faith, we are no longer slaves to those desires and have newfound strength to choose to do right.

Think of it like a caterpillar transforming into a butterfly. The caterpillar’s old life is replaced by something beautiful and new. Similarly, our old self has died with Christ, and through His resurrection, we become beautiful new creations, living by His power and grace.

Reflect on the areas of your life where you might be living for yourself instead of Christ. Ask God to help you surrender these areas to Him. Embrace the reality that Christ lives in you, guiding and empowering you to live a life of faith and obedience. Make daily decisions that reflect this transformation.

May the Lord fill you with a deep understanding of your identity in Christ.  As you embrace this truth, may you be empowered to live by faith, reflecting His love and grace in all you do. Go forth, knowing that Christ lives in you, transforming you for His glory.

February 1 -- "So Quickly Deserting the Gospel"

Read Galatians 1

In a span of less than twenty years after Jesus' resurrection, a disturbing trend developed in the churches of Galatia. Christians were falling away from the true Gospel, and following a “different gospel.” The Apostle Paul penned his letter to the Galatians to address this tragic development. Here, he confronts the teachings of the "Judaizers"—a group of Jewish Christians who insisted that Gentile converts must adhere to the Mosaic Law.

The book of Galatians begins with a fervent defense of the Gospel of grace. In verse 6, Paul voices his amazement at the Galatians' swift departure from the truth they had embraced. Paul stresses that there is only one true Gospel—the message of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ alone, received through grace by faith alone and not by works, rules, rituals, or religious practices.

This serves as a reminder that confusion about the Gospel is not a new phenomenon. Even in the early church, false teachings threatened to distort Christ's message. Several factors contributed to the Galatian believers' vulnerability to this false Gospel. First, the deceitful tactics of the false teachers played a significant role. This chapter refers to "some who are troubling you" (Galatians 1:7). These false teachers were highly persuasive, appealing to familiar traditions or cultural practices known to the Galatians.

Secondly, there was a misunderstanding of God's grace. The concept of salvation as a free gift from God through faith in Christ alone was a revolutionary and unprecedented idea in their time. The false Gospel, which emphasized works and human effort, likely felt more comfortable to their human logic (and pride). Grace challenged their deeply rooted belief system of earning good standing through good deeds. It represented a radical shift in their worldview. Paul firmly corrects their erroneous beliefs and underscores that there is only one true Gospel—the message of receiving God's grace through faith in Jesus.

How can one avoid being led astray by a false Gospel? By firmly grasping the simplicity and sufficiency of Christ's sacrifice. The Gospel of grace is not merely a suggestion or a starting point; it is the power of God for salvation to all who believe (Romans 1:16). Embrace it, hold fast to it, and do not be swayed by "another Gospel."

Today, may you hold fast to the true Gospel, embracing the simplicity and sufficiency of Christ's sacrifice. And may you be steadfast in your faith, unswayed by false teachings, and filled with the power of God's salvation.

January 31 -- "Risen! Divine Metamorphosis"

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Read Mark 16

The story of humanity began in a state of perfect harmony with God, free from pain, death, or decay. But in Genesis 3, sin crept into the world through Adam and Eve's disobedience, bringing with it sorrow, suffering, and mortality. But, even in humanity's darkest hour, God's light of redemption shone brightly: He promised that the offspring of the woman would crush the serpent's head (Genesis 3:15).

This promise found its ultimate fulfillment in the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The angel's words at the empty tomb declared a triumphant truth—Jesus, who was crucified but now risen, has forever defeated the power of sin and death.

Consider the caterpillar, which begins its life crawling in the dirt, seemingly small, fragile, and bound to the earth. Its existence might appear limited, and its future bleak. Yet, hidden within this unassuming creature is a divine design for transformation. Through the mysterious process of metamorphosis, the caterpillar enters a cocoon—a place that might seem like death to an observer. But what emerges is something entirely new: a butterfly, free to soar above the earth with wings of vibrant beauty.

In the same way, Jesus’ death and resurrection demonstrate God’s power to bring life from what seems hopeless and dead. On Good Friday, the disciples saw their Master laid in a tomb, His body broken, His mission seemingly ended. But the tomb, like a cocoon, was not a place of finality—it was a place of transformation. On Resurrection Sunday, Jesus emerged victorious, no longer bound by the limitations of mortality. His resurrection promises that all who trust in Him will likewise experience transformation—passing from death to life, from sorrow to joy, from brokenness to glory, and from sin’s curse to eternal life.

This profound transformation encourages us to see beyond our current struggles, trusting that God is working all things for our good and His glory. The resurrection guarantees that, in Christ, the best is yet to come. May He transform your heart with His victory, lift your spirit with His hope, and guide your steps into the fullness of His eternal life.

January 30 -- "Truly The Son of God"

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Read Mark 15:21-47

A Roman centurion stands at the foot of the cross, his heart moved by what he has witnessed. In the final moments of Jesus' life, as He breathes His last, the heavy curtain of the Temple is dramatically torn in two. This centurion, a seasoned soldier familiar with countless deaths, sees something extraordinary in Jesus. With a powerful declaration, he exclaims, "Truly this man was the Son of God," recognizing Jesus' divine nature.

The title "Son of God" holds immense significance. It affirms that Jesus is not merely a wise teacher or prophet or a good man but actually shares in the very essence and nature of God Himself. This divine title highlights Jesus' origin, authority, and His pivotal role in God's plan for redemption. Throughout the Gospels, Jesus performed countless miracles—healing the sick, raising the dead, casting out demons, restoring sight to the blind, curing lepers, teaching with unparalleled authority, forgiving sins, and commanding the forces of nature. Each of these acts revealed His divine identity.

The centurion's profound statement was prompted by the extraordinary events of that day. He witnessed Jesus' composed demeanor, His spirit of forgiveness, the eerie darkness that shrouded the land, and the earthquake that followed His death. These remarkable signs led the centurion to the undeniable conclusion that Jesus was no ordinary man, but truly the Son of God.

For modern-day followers of Christ, this passage underscores the universal recognition of Jesus' divinity and lordship. It reminds us that even those who may seem distant from faith can come to acknowledge Jesus as the Son of God. This truth encourages us to view others through God's compassionate eyes, knowing that no one is beyond the reach of His grace. In a world often divided by race, status, politics, and beliefs, the death of Jesus and the centurion's proclamation serve as a poignant reminder that the Gospel is for everyone in every place at every time.

Just as the centurion was touched by the love of Christ, you might be surprised by who can be reached by His grace. Pray for opportunities to share your faith, live out the love of Jesus boldly, and trust that God is at work in hearts, even though you may not see it yet.

January 29 -- "The Righteous for the Unrighteous"

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Read Mark 15:1-20

In Mark 15, we see the profound moment when Jesus, after being scourged, is delivered to be crucified. This pivotal event highlights the immense sacrifice He made for our salvation.

Imagine a career criminal awaiting his execution, fully expecting to face the ultimate penalty for his crimes. Despite his undeniable guilt and multiple convictions, he suddenly receives news that he might not die after all. Confused and astonished, he learns that a just and righteous man has offered to take his place, facing the death penalty instead. This surprising turn of events fills the criminal with immense relief.

This, my friends, is the story of Barabbas, a first-century career criminal, and the righteous Man who took his place and died a substitutionary death: Jesus Christ of Nazareth. Barabbas, a notorious criminal, is set free, while Jesus, the spotless and innocent Lamb of God, is condemned to die by crucifixion. This act of substitution vividly illustrates what Jesus accomplished for all of us on the cross. He took our place—the Just for the unjust—bearing the punishment for our sins so that we might be set free.

Jesus' sacrifice is the ultimate demonstration of God's love and justice. As Romans 5:8 reminds us, "But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us." Despite our guilt, Christ stepped in to take the penalty we deserved. Just as Barabbas was set free while Jesus was punished, we too are offered freedom through the sacrificial death of the sinless Substitute.

Understanding that Jesus died in our place should lead us to live a life of gratitude, obedience, and devotion. Our response should be to live for Him who died for us, embracing the new life we have in Christ. May His substitutionary death inspire us to live a life that honors Him. When guilt and shame from past sins try to weigh us down, let us remember that Jesus has already borne our punishment. Rejoice in the freedom and forgiveness He offers.

May your Heavenly Father, who gave His only Son as a ransom for many, fill your heart with overwhelming gratitude and peace. And may you walk in the freedom and newness of life that Jesus secured for you.

January 28 -- "The Right Hand of Power"

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Read Mark 14:53-72

Jesus Christ is the ever-living and reigning King of kings, destined to soon return in His magnificent glory. In Mark 14:62, Jesus asserts and affirms this identity as the Messiah and the Son of God before the high priest. When Jesus declares Himself the “Son of Man,” He is embracing a title deeply connected to the coming Messiah, as foretold in Daniel 7:13. This powerful assertion directly challenges the authority of the Jewish council and marks a pivotal moment in the trial, as Jesus proclaims His exalted position at God's right hand and His future return in glory.

In the ancient Jewish and Biblical context, the right hand symbolized a position of strength, power, and honor. To sit at the right hand of a king or governor was to be in a place of highest trust, closeness, and authority. In fact, the person at the king’s right hand carried all the power and authority as the king, himself. By claiming this seat at the right hand of the supreme “Power” (God), Jesus was asserting His divine authority as one with the Father. His words echo the truth of Psalm 110:1, where God tells the Messiah, "Sit at my right hand, until I make your enemies your footstool."

For us as modern-day believers, this passage is a powerful reminder that Jesus is not merely a historical figure. He is the living, reigning King of kings who will one day return in glory. It bolsters our faith in His promises and reassures us of His power over all circumstances. The return of Jesus in glory will be a visible event witnessed by everyone. In a world often plagued by fear, uncertainty, and doubt, knowing that Jesus is seated at the right hand of Power offers us immense comfort and strength. Our hope is firmly anchored in His sovereignty and the certainty of His imminent return.

With this truth in mind, we are called to live with urgency and purpose. We should make our relationship with Jesus a top priority, knowing that our ultimate hope is found in Him. Picture a gardener who, despite the looming storm clouds, continues to till the soil and plant seeds, trusting that the sun will return. In the same way, we should invest in our spiritual growth and live our lives for Jesus, confident in His promise to come again.

Now, may the Lord, who reigns at the right hand of Power, fill your heart with hope and strength. May you live in the light of His coming, bearing fruit in every good work, and may His peace guard your hearts until we see Him face to face. Amen.

January 27 -- "No 'Plan B'"

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Read Mark 14:26-52

The Bible is brimming with stories that highlight God's extraordinary love for us. One of the most poignant examples can be found in Mark 14, where Jesus grapples with the immense sacrifice He is about to make. This passage serves as a powerful reminder that our salvation was never an afterthought but a purposeful act of divine love – the only way to restore our broken relationship with God.

Picture the burden Jesus carried – the agony He knew He would endure, being pierced, crushed, wounded, and ultimately killed. Despite the dread, He willingly submits to God's plan. When Jesus says, "if it be possible," He is essentially asking, "Father, if there is any way to redeem humanity without me going through this horrific suffering and death on the cross, please reveal it now." He is seeking an alternative path to redemption.

The Father's response, reflected in Jesus' submission and His eventual death, is clear – there was no other way. There was no "plan B" for reconciling humanity to God. This is because, as stated in Hebrews 9:22, "without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness."

This underscores the profound truth that God's plan to redeem humanity could only be accomplished through Jesus' sacrificial death. It fulfills the prophecy in Isaiah 53:5, "But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds, we are healed."

For us today, this highlights the incredible magnitude of what Jesus endured on our behalf. John 15:13 reminds us, "Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” Understanding this can deepen our gratitude and inspire us to live in a way that honors His sacrifice.

Reflect on the significance of Jesus' sacrificial death and what it means for your life. Realize that every aspect of your salvation hinges on His ultimate act of love and submission. Let this profound truth inspire you to live a life filled with gratitude, obedience, love, and submission to your Heavenly Father's will.