Shining Above!

The weather is an ever changing thing. Clouds blow in and gray skies sometimes cause people to go into depression. Mist and rain may dampen the spirit even more than the ground on which they fall. However, when the sun comes out evaporating the clouds and the dampness that was there, it is amazing the transformation that sometimes takes place with the outlook of some individuals. Attitudes and perspectives often become as bright, cheery and warm as the rays of the sun shining overhead. Life may have its gloomy moments, but remember that even above the clouds the sun is still shining. Is it not the same spiritually when we recognize what is above us?

In the prophecy of God through Isaiah, note the following description of God’s forgiveness in the redemptive work God would fulfill on behalf of His people.

“(21) Remember these things, O Jacob, and Israel, for you are my servant; I formed you; you are my servant; O Israel, you will not be forgotten by me. (22) I HAVE BLOTTED OUT YOUR TRANSGRESSIONS LIKE A CLOUD AND YOUR SINS LIKE MIST; return to me, for I have redeemed you.” ( Isaiah 44:21-22 ESV)

As with the rising of the sun to cause the morning fog to begin to dissipate, so it is with THE RISEN SON Who gave Himself for our sins in order for them to be blotted out. The bright rays of our Lord’s love should be clearly seen in His willingness to endure the cross on our behalf. The promise of salvation in Him and the complete forgiveness of our sins should part the clouds in our sky and dry the mist from our eyes. Because of the RISEN SON we have cause for eternal rejoicing!

Peter exhorted an audience gathered in Solomon’s portico to…

“(19) REPENT therefore, and TURN AGAIN, THAT YOUR SINS MAY BE BLOTTED OUT, (20) that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord, and that he may send the Christ appointed for you, Jesus, (21) whom heaven must receive until the time for restoring all the things about which God spoke by the mouth of his holy prophets long ago.” ( Acts 3:19-21 ESV)

We do not have to live in the fog! Because of the RISEN SON our redemption has been made possible. God longs for all to repent ( 2 Peter 3:9) so that they can receive the blessing of forgiveness Jesus has made possible. May we continue to live with a repentant spirit so that we may receive the blessing God is so eager to provide.

Have a great day LIVING IN THE SON’S BRIGHT HOPE!
Carl

See other teEn-MAIL on Forgiveness