Romans 5:1-8: Throw Open the Doors
Thursday, December 7, 2023
By entering through faith into what God has always wanted to do for us – set us right with him, make us fit for him – we have it all together with God because of our Master Jesus. And that’s not all: We throw open our doors to God and discover at the same moment that he has already thrown open his door to us. We find ourselves standing where we always hoped we might stand—out in the wide open spaces of God’s grace and glory, standing tall and shouting our praise. (MSG)
If only we might look at faith as our willingness to throw open the doors of our heart. In this way we convert doubt to steadfastness.
If only me might persist I loving our enemies to see that God loves each and all. In this way we convert walls to bridges.
If only we might relax into God’s love long enough to understand that God already lives in our hearts. In this way we convert fear to grace.
If only we might perceive God’s grace and stand tall to shout out God’s glory. In this way we convert hatred to love.
God says: When you fear the wide open spaces of my grace and glory, I become a small, petty god in your eyes. It is no wonder that you do not trust me. When you reject my love to replace it with fear, I become a mean, manipulating god who preys on brave hearts. It is no wonder you discard me. When you open your hearts, when you persist in loving your enemies, when you allow my strength to bolster you and to carry your woes, I become the enormous, infinite Living God who is loving all harm into good, all evil into love. Remain in me, no matter your circumstances.
And so we pray.
Good and generous God, today we give all fear, anger and doubt to you. We pledge to throw open the doors of our hearts to your presence, and to resist closing them again to your love. Amen.
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