Word for the day by Christian Education Forum
Jesus Christ Who Transforms
Romans 12:11-14
Devotion
In a world often shrouded in darkness, the transformative power of Jesus Christ shines on us as a beacon of hope. In Romans 13:11-14, the Blessed Apostle St. Paul urges believers to awaken from spiritual sleep and embrace the imminent arrival of salvation. This awakening isn't merely a call to wake up but a call to transform one’s self.
The transformation that Jesus brings is profound and comprehensive. It's not merely a superficial change in behavior but a deep, inward renewal of the heart and mind. It's a journey from darkness into light, from death into life. As followers of Christ, we are called to embody this transformation in every aspect of our lives, especially during this time before the Great Lent of 50 days.
Firstly, this transformation entails a shift in perspective. We are called to recognize the urgency of the times in which we live. The dawn of salvation draws nearer with each passing moment. It is this theme of being prepared that we can see in our church, especially during the Funeral gospel reading for a woman, with The Parable of the Ten Virgins. This realization should stir us from complacency and ignite a desire in our hearts for righteousness. As a church whose theme is “Lighted to Lighten”, and as children of light, we are called to live differently from the world around us. We must reject the sinful patterns of behavior that characterize the darkness and instead embrace the virtues of Christ-likeness.
Transformation requires us to clothe ourselves with Christ. This imagery speaks of an intimate union with Jesus, where His character becomes our own. As we immerse ourselves in His Word, commune with Him in prayer, and walk in obedience to His commands, we are to gradually conform to His image. The transformation through Christ empowers us to resist worldly pleasures. Rather than gratifying our sinful desires, we are called to crucify our worldly desires and live by the Spirit. Through the power of Christ dwelling within us, we can overcome temptation and walk in holiness.
The transformation that Jesus brings is profound and comprehensive. It's not merely a superficial change in behavior but a deep, inward renewal of the heart and mind. It's a journey from darkness into light, from death into life. As followers of Christ, we are called to embody this transformation in every aspect of our lives, especially during this time before the Great Lent of 50 days.
Firstly, this transformation entails a shift in perspective. We are called to recognize the urgency of the times in which we live. The dawn of salvation draws nearer with each passing moment. It is this theme of being prepared that we can see in our church, especially during the Funeral gospel reading for a woman, with The Parable of the Ten Virgins. This realization should stir us from complacency and ignite a desire in our hearts for righteousness. As a church whose theme is “Lighted to Lighten”, and as children of light, we are called to live differently from the world around us. We must reject the sinful patterns of behavior that characterize the darkness and instead embrace the virtues of Christ-likeness.
Transformation requires us to clothe ourselves with Christ. This imagery speaks of an intimate union with Jesus, where His character becomes our own. As we immerse ourselves in His Word, commune with Him in prayer, and walk in obedience to His commands, we are to gradually conform to His image. The transformation through Christ empowers us to resist worldly pleasures. Rather than gratifying our sinful desires, we are called to crucify our worldly desires and live by the Spirit. Through the power of Christ dwelling within us, we can overcome temptation and walk in holiness.
Prayer
Father, Help me to continually live by not my will, but YOUR will, Amen.
Thought for the Day
“The only real mistake is the one from which we learn nothing." - Henry Ford
Father, Help me to continually live by not my will, but YOUR will, Amen.
Thought for the Day
“The only real mistake is the one from which we learn nothing." - Henry Ford
Roshan Varughese
Epiphany Mar Thoma Church
Epiphany Mar Thoma Church