Life and Peace – Week One

Early this fall, I gathered with a few close friends. After food, laughter, and sharing our hearts, we opened God’s Word. At the suggestion of one, we worked through Romans 8, each reading one verse at a time. The words resonated deeply. Something about hearing truth spoken and speaking it out loud was transformative.

The message of hope echoed loudly – hope that goes far beyond wishful thinking, hope that speaks to and through our suffering and struggles.

For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed to us. For the anxious longing of creation waits eagerly for the revelation of the sons of God. Romans 8:18-19 NASB

When what we once depended on feels unstable and uncertain, we can join with creation in anticipating our God. Despite death, destruction, and chaos – we know the love of God that conquers all fear. Even when our feelings deny it – we can shift our mind through the Spirit, learning to be filled with life and peace.

As I write these words, the Christmas season is in full swing. Decorations, trees, and lights are everywhere. The extra brightness in this dark season brings a certain delight, but on a deeper level, it also serves to remind us of the advent of hope.

For what the Law could not do, weak as it was through the flesh God did: sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and as an offering for sin, He condemned sin in the flesh. Romans 8:3

Advent is defined as the arrival of a notable person or thing.

The arrival of Jesus changed everything, and still has the power to change you and me today.

For years, God’s people lived under the Law. Some tried their best to follow His instructions. Some added to the Law, focusing on rules and regulations, becoming self-righteous. Others abandoned God altogether. All people fell short.

But God had a solution. Out of His love for humanity, He became human. As the disciple John describes it, God became flesh and walked among us. The God who was hidden was now seen. The Law that was once unattainable was lived out in perfection.

Often in the day-to-day, I miss the beauty and the power of Jesus’s life. I forget the grace, forgiveness, and peace He provides. I take His love for granted. And I fall short of the abundant life He offers.

Today, as I sit looking at my Christmas tree with a fire flickering in the background, I reread the words of Romans 8. And I am drawn to the power of the incarnation.

Because of Jesus’s life, I am not condemned.

Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. Romans 8:1

Because of Jesus’s life, I am free.

For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and death. Romans 8:2

Because of Jesus’s life, I have peace.

For the mind set on the flesh is death, but the mind set on the Spirit is life and peace. Romans 8:6