Tuesday, January 27, 2009

Back to The Future Again

As I contemplate the future - of our nation, of The Church, of pop Christianity, of my children - I am reminded of Calvin's "What of It?" remarks, in which he encourages us to look confidently to and find our hope in Christ, who is seated at the Father's right hand...now! I've quoted this before, but it's good stuff...worth repeating.

Jesus is at the right hand of God in this nature which He assumed with us...He is always ready to stretch out to us His hand, and we must be certain that, although we suffer for a time, the end of it will be for our salvation. That is what must be understood when His Ascension is spoken of. Thus, since He has gone up there, and is in heaven for us, let us note that we need not fear to be in this world.

It is true that we are subject to so much misery that our condition is pitiable, [but] we look to our Head Who is already in heaven, and say, “Although I am weak, there is Jesus Christ Who is powerful enough to make me stand upright.

Although I am feeble, there is Jesus Christ who is my strength.

Although I am full of miseries, Jesus Christ is in immortal glory and what He has will some time be given to me and I shall partake of all His benefits.

“Yes, the devil is called the prince of this world. But what of it? Jesus Christ holds him in check; for He is King of heaven and earth.

There are devils above us in the air who make war against us. But what of it? Jesus Christ rules above, having entire control of the battle. Thus, we need not doubt that He gives us the victory.

I am here subject to many changes, which may cause me to lose courage. But what of it? The Son of God is my Head, Who is exempt from all change. I must, then, take confidence in Him.”

Let us live what we confess! Christ the King will perform his will in, through, because of and in spite of who the president of the United States is. Let us not think for a moment that we are wiser than the One who sets up all rulers and authorities. Let us not forget the way in which He accomplished His will for His people through the likes of Pharoah, Nebuchadnezzar, David and Paul!

You know, He's not surprised or caught off-guard about what to do! And He is more than able to enact His own will for all the peoples of the earth. Trust Him! Do not be afraid!

2 comments:

JD Linton said...

Amen. Thank you, Lori.

Anonymous said...

Good words to ponder.