“Our
hearts are sometimes condemned by what we rejoice in, as well as what we worry
about.” p. 125
Here's a good reminder for the upcoming holidays. :)
“But if
the reversal of Purim was worth celebrating annually, as a reminder of God’s
intervention in history, how much more should those who understand the Greatest
Reversal of all celebrate. How much more should we find ourselves on our knees
with thankfulness to God, not simply that life has gone well for us this year
(if it has), but because death has been transformed into life for us in
Christ.” p. 125
Very interesting. It's astounding to think how the Jewish people/nation (especially those who are religiously practicing), who for thousands of generations have consistently and seriously commemorated each Jewish tradition/holiday, in this case Purim, which reminds them of how they (i.e. their ancestors) were spared from death, but then totally missing out on something much greater. Going back to reflect on what Pastor Duguid pointed out, if only these Jews truly realize and understand what the Messiah (whom they deliberately chose to be crucified) had done in order to spare those, who will believe in Him, from physical death and by His power transforming death into eternal life. As a gentile who have been given grace to understand this truth from the power of the word of God in Holy Scriptures, I say, declare, and agree that this is far more greater than merely being spared from physical death because this not only refers to the salvation of the human body, but this also speaks of the salvation of the never-dying soul. It seems to me that when the Jews have asked for Jesus' death stating that "...His blood be on us and our children..." (see Matt 27:25), this request has also been dreadfully granted what with how the Jewish people and nation have suffered over centuries. They need not suffer life here on earth, as they can gain eternal life by faith in the person and Godhead of Christ. Having said this, I'm tremendously humbled indeed and am truly on my knees thanking God for saving such a one who being a depraved gentile utterly unable to understand and see the light of His truth, but by the transforming power and the divine operation of the Spirit after having received and heard the gospel of Jesus Christ, was able to come to an understanding and belief of what He is able to save me from not only in this world but in the life to come.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much Becky for posting these sobering reminders! I have been truly blessed visiting and reading through your blog site. I'm hoping to also be able to get a copy of this work by Pastor Duguid. What edifying read indeed!
Yes, it is definitely an edifying read. Stay tuned for more quotes. :)
ReplyDelete