For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. Eph. 2:8-9
Lord Jesus, it’s October 31, 2020. The same day in 1517, Martin Luther began a fresh chapter in the back-to-the-Gospel story—a story which preceded him, and will continue till you return. For we suffer from truth-dementia, Gospel-amnesia, grace-allergies, and faith-forgetfulness—with a big dose of insufferable pride.
The Gospel declares us to be in greater need that we want to admit, and more loved than we can possibly imagine. We needed a new heart, not a fresh start; to be a new tree, not turn over a new leaf; your perfect righteousness, not our tearful resolve; your saving grace, not our sweaty grit.
Thank you for exhausting our guilt, taking our shame, and breaking our chains. Today we re-affirm our hope is built on nothing less, other, and more than you and your finished work. All other saviors are “snake-oil salesmen.” All other hopes are empty-nothings. All other kings are barking puppies. All other riches are “fool’s gold.” All other peace is evaporating-dew.
Keep bringing us back to the Gospel of grace, Jesus. Keep bringing us back to Gospel-sanity. So very Amen we pray, in your most holy and gracious name.
