Jerard & Jovaun: Faith to FaithÖrnek

 During His ministry on Earth, Jesus attracted many people from all walks of life. Prostitutes, tax collectors, beggars, and others considered to be on the fringes of society. Children wanted to be near Him. The poor found hope in Him. He spent a great deal of time with large crowds of followers, teaching and healing. To them, His beauty was clearly seen. I wonder if we are able to recognize that same beauty today.

Our church family is currently reading through a Bible series together. In a year's time, we will have read through the entire Bible. When it came time to read the section of the Bible called the Pentateuch (or the Torah) in which all of the laws and rituals were laid out, I have to be honest… it was pretty rough. Countless rules, regulations, stipulations, specifications, sacred festivals and feasts and the like were expected to be observed in order to walk in covenant with God. To say that many of them were hard to understand (especially given my 21st century, Americanized mindset) is an understatement. Needless to say when we finished the series, I walked away with an appreciation for Jesus' sacrifice like never before! I had no trouble recognizing the beauty of His name. 

Thankfully, Romans 3:20 puts us at ease with this declaration: “Therefore no one will be justified in God's sight by works the law. For the law merely brings awareness of sin.”  Galatians 5:14 also says, “For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command. Love your neighbor as yourself.” The need to fulfill the requirements of the law spelled out in the Pentateuch are no longer the priority, but rather our relationship with Jesus Christ as well as our relationship with our fellow brothers and sisters. Jesus Christ is the fulfillment of the law. Now, that’s good news!

What Jesus has done for us is, indeed, a thing of beauty.  “Although the word “beautiful” is an unusual adjective in this context, it is an entirely appropriate description. He willingly sacrificed His life for ours. He laid down His power and left the splendor of His heavenly home so that we could enjoy His presence forever! His sacrifice has freed us from the law of sin and death. And He didn't stop there. Following His death and resurrection, He sent His Holy Spirit to lead, guide, comfort, direct, to teach, counsel and advocate for us. We have so much available to us in Christ. What a beautiful Savior He is!