Cross and Crown

James 1:12

God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.

Sunday morning at church, the worship team led us in a beautiful rendition of "O Come to the Altar" by Elevation Worship. As they strummed guitars and voices rose, I focused on the words. The song talks about Jesus and how he has his arms open to us who may be hurting or searching. The words reminded me that Jesus wants me to come to him and bow down, seeking his love. As I sang along and we came to the end of the song, this line grabbed me—"Bear your cross, as you wait on your crown."

That line describes life. Temptation and testing happens every day. The devil never misses an opportunity to poke his ugly fingers into our lives. He'd love more than anything for us to succumb to his wily ways. But that's only part of the story. The second half of the line, "wait on your crown" is overflowing with hope. As I seek Jesus, he shores me up and equips me with the tools to fight back and knock Satan out of my life. Jesus provides resistance and strength. As you bear your cross and wait on your crown, know that Jesus stands with you.

...hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. Ephesians 6:16

Even Thomas Barrow Found Redemption

2 Timothy 1:9-10
He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.

Thomas Barrow coerced people, manipulated the people he worked with, lied, and spied. For five seasons on Downton Abbey, he was treacherous, a sinner by any standard. As a result he was lonely, disheartened with life, and downright miserable. Sinning doesn't produce a beautiful life. Yet, even Thomas Barrett found redemption. By season six his life took a tragic turn and the very people he hurt and manipulated came to his rescue and forgave him. What? Forgave the guy who was so mean. Yes. They rallied around him and welcomed him into their family and loved him. And you know what, he smiled, he loved back, and he found peace.

I realize Thomas was a character with a scripted life, but how much does this reflect reality? I sin. The Bible says we all do. And yes other people's sin has hurt me just as my sins have hurt others. Yet, I am forgiven. Because Jesus gave his life for me. No matter how good I try to be, goodness won't save me from eternal hell. But Jesus will. He died for me, for everyone. He came to earth as human, experienced life here and suffered through death. But the beautiful that resulted is indescribable. God brought Jesus back to life. His resurrection is pure hope. The hope I recognized when I accepted Jesus as my Savior, my friend, my redeemer. As Easter approaches think on these things. Through Jesus I received forgiveness and continue to, because I follow Jesus, obey his teachings, and pray for mercy. I'm not saved by my power but by grace. Praise God for Jesus!