Mighty to Save

You may check out the video referenced here by going to http://tbclodi.com/TBC/Videos.html

I know many in our congregation were touched by last week's drama. I don't know about you, but my favorite part was when the Jesus triumphed over the dark powers. It reminded me of Colossians 2:13-15, which says:

"When you were dead in your sins and in the uncircumcision of your sinful nature, God made you alive with Christ. He forgave us all our sins, having canceled the written code, with its regulations, that was against us and that stood opposed to us; he took it away, nailing it to the cross. And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross."

Jesus triumphed over the powers and authorities of the present world (which is under the dominion of Satan, the "ruler of the kingdom of the air," see Ephesians 2.2). He totally defeated them. That doesn't mean we don't still succomb to their influence. We each choose to let them influence us when we let sin reign in our lives, when we let bitterness or anger or lust or pride go unchecked and unconfessed. Maybe your temptation isn't one of the ones pictured in the drama, but anything can "beat us up" if we let it come between us and Jesus.

I also love the imagery of Jesus waiting, grieving, looking on with compassionate eyes, ready to step in when invited. It's been said many times before that "Jesus is a gentleman," waiting for us to ask for help and not just barging in uninvited. After the lead character turns to him, though, he fights for her and takes her place and takes our punishment. I am reminded of Isaiah 53.5:

"But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon him, and by his wounds we are healed."

Why were many of us so moved? Why did tears well up in my eyes every time I saw the drama performed? Because it's such a powerful declaration of the supernatural, miraculous work of Jesus Christ. I choose stupid things over his good plan for me, and reap the consequences (because sin always breaks something.) But Jesus looks on with compassionate eyes, longing for me to give up my striving alone and return to his gracious presence. And when I do repent, or turn from my sin, he is always there to fight for me.

Let's praise God for his glorious grace (Ephesians 1:3-6).