The blood on the houses where you are staying will be a distinguishing mark for you; when I see the blood, I will pass over you. No plague will be among you to destroy you when I strike the land of Egypt. – Exodus 12:13 HCSB
I like to think of the blood as a distinguishing mark of love, especially in the context of Jesus who brought us into the New Testament through the shedding of His own blood. He loved me while I was still turning my back on Him and pledged to love me into eternity.
It is a distinguishing mark of intense love, not just a love uttered from lips, not a love that looks more like mercy, but a love that wells up from His heart. It is a love that I do not doubt.
It is a distinguishing mark of a mighty love and testifies to the One who gave it – an undying love which water nor death could quench. I received it from His hand.
It is a distinguishing mark of a love that is given through wisdom – the Lord already knew why I rebelled against Him and has met me where I am at.
It is a distinguishing mark of a love that is unlimited – not sparing even His own Son, God gave it freely. It is a love that I will prize.
So then you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with the saints, and members of God’s household. Ephesians 2:19-20 HCSB
This love allows me to be united in Christ and that means I am also united with other followers of Jesus. There are differences between us, but not divisions. That is what love looks like.
Father, when I take communion with other followers of Jesus, it is in the taking of the bread and of the wine that allows me to remember and to celebrate what You have done. I love that You have asked me to do this as often as I meet with other believers. This past Sunday morning, as we celebrated together, I remembered vividly the tears that were shed by me as I released my shame into Your hands as You loved me and forgave me. For one who was forgiven much, I love You much. Your love has never failed, Your love has never disappointed, and Your love has always been enough. Thank You. Help me to be generous in my love and in my forgiveness to others so that I will look more like You. Amen.
Erwin (evanlaar1922)
Sixty-six books in a year 