Unlike Jesus, I hurt God and exalted myself above all. I made myself a god and stuck my tongue out in defiance to my Creator. And so, I was lost to sin and darkness, destined for death. The devil’s chains were fastened tight around me because he had a lawful claim to my life.
But through Jesus I am redeemed. He submitted Himself to be nailed to that tree in my place. My slate is wiped clean by the blood shed by my God on the cross of Calvary. I am found and brought into the light. My chains lie broken on the ground because the devil no longer has a case against me. And I kneel in submission to my God.
Like Jesus, I too have died to this world. I live in Him and He lives in me. Now I shout out, “Jesus is Lord!” as I was chosen to do. Because like Jesus I too was prophesied: A gentile coming into the fold of God, being grafted into His family; a daughter who has graciously received the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, prophesying according to that same Spirit that burns in me and reveals mysteries.
God’s mark of redemption is engraved on my forehead for all to see and marvel at His glory. It is there for the world and the authorities in the unseen realms to know that I am a testimony of His mercy and grace.
And as I am called to be holy as He is, I also share in His suffering. Yet, one day I will share in His glory. After I take my last mortal breath, like Jesus I will rise again.
Jesus, my God, all I want is to be like you.
The Mark 8 Christian 