1 Peter 1:17-21
17Since you call on a Father who judges each man's work impartially,
live your lives as strangers here in reverent fear.
18For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold
that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your forefathers,
19but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect.
20He was chosen before the creation of the world,
but was revealed in these last times for your sake.
21Through him you believe in God, who raised him from the dead and glorified him,
and so your faith and hope are in God.
In this age of materialism, we spend a great deal of money on items we deem important... Me, I wouldn't hesitate to purchase a new computer every time my 'present' one showed signs of slowing or aging, if I were in a position to do so. THAT is how important a computer is to me.
In purchasing what I class as a 'greatly treasured' item, I would pay whatever price was necessary and, in no way, would I shove it in a cupboard, slip it under a bed, or allow it to be mishandled in any way. It would be given a place of honour in my home and life...
When I read the above verse, this is what I hear in my heart: God SO loved us, that He used the most valueable thing He possessed to 'purchase' us ~ to save us from a world gone astray, from our own selfishness, and from being estranged from Him. He paid the ultimate price for us... and in no way does He want us in any place other than one of honour... Because, to Him, we are His treasured 'possession'... By Him, we are loved... YOU are dearly loved and highly valued...
PRAYER: Father, thank you for your great love, and the price you paid to ransom us from the pit of death, sin, and brokenness. Lord, sometimes it's really difficult for us to see how much you truly love us - especially when we have spent so much time in a world that often rejects and bruises us, so please, open our ears, eyes, heart and understanding so we may see, feel and receive the fullness of your presence and your great love... Thank you... xoxox