July 22 Changed Forever

Luke 2:33-35 The child's father and mother marveled at what was said about him. 34 Then Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, his mother: “This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, 35 so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too.”
 
IN the midst of this joyous moment for Simeon, he prophesied a summary of Jesus’ ministry. Jesus will cause change. People will rise, and people will fall because of Jesus’ life. Jesus will make a difference.
     Indeed, he has, hasn’t he? The gospel message is all about change. From the moment Jesus arrived on earth into his creation, countless numbers of people have found new life in him. We’ve read, for example, of Mary and Joseph very personally experiencing God. We saw them faithfully respond to God’s call. And we know, that even in her pierced soul, Mary remained faithful to her son who is her Lord through his death, resurrection and ascension.
     During Jesus’ lifetime, thousands upon thousands of people changed in his miracles. Jesus fed them their daily bread. He healed the sick. He forgave the repentant sinners. On the cross, Jesus offered the great change for mankind’s souls as he exchanged his holiness for our sin. Since the cross, the Holy Spirit has changed millions of souls to eternal life because Jesus, the Savior, has come.
     As you hear the gospel whether it is for the first time or the ten thousandth time, I pray a living faith rises up in you to know it is the power to change you. Rejoice and Know Jesus gospel changes you into a child of the living God!  
    
Prayer: You are the Resurrection and the Life, Jesus. Change my life to fully receive you. Amen.