Christian Counseling Service -- Devotions

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Friday, January 1, 2010

Galatians 4:4-7
Brothers and sisters: when the fullness of time had come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to ransom those under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons. As proof that you are sons, God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying out, "Abba, Father!"

So you are no longer a slave but a son, and if a son then also an heir, through God.

What's behind door #3? I won't know unless that's the one I choose. Are my religious decisions just as random and superstitious? Or maybe I just want to hedge my bets and believe what is most likely to get me a good long eternal rest, a walk down jeweled streets into the infinite sunset.

Paul sets up a choice I can make right now. Would I rather be a slave or a son? Slaves are less responsible, less anxious, less burdened. Sons become heirs and inherit whatever their fathers choose for them. Slaves are appreciated for their hard work. Sons are loved without condition.

Both have advantages not necessarily shared with the other. But Jesus chose not to be only a rabbi or priest. He called himself "son" and God his "father." He calls us to become his brothers (Romans 8:29). There is a family here that looks pretty good from the outside. He invites me in.

I knock on the door, Jesus opens it. He sits me down by the fire and fills my hands with food and drink. He puts a blanket around my back. He snaps his fingers and the musicians begin to play. Jesus is a great host. His food is always hot.

Jesus looks me in the eye and listens to my stories about the troubles of my trip. I am very tired. My feet are bruised and bleeding. He takes my feet in his hands and washes them in warm water, and this makes me so happy I can cry. I do cry. Joy.

In time I fall asleep, and Jesus carries me to a soft bed. When I awaken I know what I want. Can I give up my position, stable as it is, and move into Jesus' house? My masters aren't cruel, but they will still insist on a purchase price that I have been saving toward for a long time. I have nowhere near what they require.

You know the rest of the story. At breakfast Jesus offers me a writ of sonship, free and clear. My slavery is history. This day is the first day of the rest of my life.

Oh happy day. Happy New Year. Happy family. Rest in peace.

Bless this day, Lord, even while I reflect on the echoes of yesterday and listen for the whispers of tomorrow. Hold me when I cry. Free my fear. Teach me to find the laughter that comes up from deep inside of me. Breathe on me, Lord, and make me warm.

Devotions Archive

Holiday inn

Friday, January 1, 2010