IF-Then- A devotion

Romans 8:1-11 We learn early on that life             Is framed by “If- Then” IF we do something            THEN something happens Everything from our diet             To our work To our relationships            Is framed by “If-Then” It follows then logically            That we carry that thinking Into our spiritual connection with God            If we do “something”, then God will respond In yesterday’s epistle lesson            Paul goes to great lengths To offer the gospel’s glorious contradiction            To our human way of thinking “There is therefore no condemnation            For those who are in Christ Jesus” he writes Our connection with God isn’t about what we do            But what God has already done Through the cross of Christ            God took the initiative To restore the broken relationship            Which our willful heart created In Christ, God has been faithful            Overcoming our faithlessness We who should be excluded            Are now embraced by God’s loving heart It is God’s scandalous love            That motivates our servant lifestyle IF we are so forgiven and claimed             THEN we offer that same love to those around us Living as Jesus intended            Brings risks and vulnerability The logic of the gospel’s “IF” however,             Compels us to live out a compassionate “THEN” A Devotion by Rev. Donald Schaefer,  Northern Region Mission Engagement Facilitator Southeastern District LCMS

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