Devotion for Sunday, December 6, 2020

“Now this Hagar is Mount Sinai in Arabia and corresponds to the present Jerusalem, for she is in slavery with her children.  But the Jerusalem above is free; she is our mother” (Galatians 4:25-26).

It is interesting that this distinction is not something Paul made up but is evident throughout the Old Testament.  There you find the distinction between Jerusalem and Zion.  They are the same place and yet they are not the same place.  One is the city of those in this age and world.  The other is of those who have overcome this age and world.  Be one who dwells in the promise of Christ.

Lord, You speak of the two places throughout Scripture.  Help me to not be bogged down with the details of life in this age, but be transformed by Your grace for the age to come. Lead me in the way of everlasting life and teach me the difference between these two places.  Let me put the old Adam to rest that the new person in Christ may live, thrive, and dwell in You always.

Lord Jesus, You have come asking us to follow You.  This is not a one time proposition, but a new way of life.  Lead me in this new way of life that I may learn more fully what Your grace and mercy mean.  Guide me, O Lord, and lead me today in the way You know I need to go.  Help me to stay firm in grace and my new life for which You died.  Help me now and always that I may follow You forever.  Amen.