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May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you (make you like Jesus) through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it.” 1 Thess. 5:23-24

 

Heavenly Father, fly-fishing with some dear friends, one of our companions lost his footing, filled his waders with water, and proceeded to float down the gentle river—to our raucous laughs and his great sense of humor.

That moment became a Gospel-metaphor for me. Father, I don’t want to wade “safely” into the river of your grace; and I certainly don’t want to stay “dry.” Sometimes losing control, getting immersed, and floating is the very best thing that can happen to us.

If these two verses were a river, here’s what “floating” looks like. Hallelujah, Father, you are our God of peace. You aren’t irritated or disappointed with us. You have given us peace, not probation—your eternal welcome, not a “second chance”—your raised Son, not your raised eyebrows.

You are actively making us like Jesus, “through and through.” Every aspect of our being—our “whole spirit, soul, and body” is destined to be as free, lovely, and whole as Jesus. Hallelujah! We are kept “blameless” for that Day because you have already declared us “righteous in Christ.” You cannot love us more. You will never decrease your love for us.

We can “float’ in the river of your grace—not flail away, thrashing about in fear and doubt. For you have “called” us, and you are “faithful” and you will “do it.” Thank you, Father. We really needed this today. So Very Amen.

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