Making Space – An Advent DevotionalParaugs

Freedom in Christ

“At one time we too were foolish…. enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures…But when the kindness and love of God our Father appeared, he saved us…”

Jesus saves. Bumper stickers proclaim it. Preachers preach it. Kids sing it. The Bible says it. At what point in time did He give us that gift of salvation? Today's passage says that it was when we were plain old foolish. When we didn’t have our act together. When we brought nothing, absolutely nothing, to the table – except for our sin and guilt. That’s when He chose to enter this world. 

The Bible says that we were “enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures.” The world sees those passions and pleasures as “freedom”. But, eventually, we are ensnared by that which can never fully satisfy, pleasures that come up short and leave us empty.

This Christmas, let’s refuse to be enslaved in the traps of the enemy. Instead, let’s pray that our hearts will be completely captivated by Christ’s love.

Prayer

Father God, help me recognize that the promises of the world are empty. Help me remember that the pleasures of the world are snares. This Advent help me to wait on You, so I am captured by Your Love. A Love that never fails. A Love that sent Your only Son into the world so I could have abundant life now and forever. Amen.