Dave’s Monday Blast – April 6, 2015
The liberation of Europe from the Nazis in 1945 took the combined efforts of all the allied forces. History affirms that the world was forever changed by that herculean effort. Free men and women everywhere are grateful for the sacrifices made by that generation of men and women. But as world-changing as that event was, it pales in comparison to the work of the world’s greatest liberator…Jesus Christ.
I have spent a great deal of time pondering the work of the Savior on the cross these last few weeks. His liberating work clarifies the very purpose of His incarnation (Luke 4:16-21): He came to set free those in captivity. The captivity that Jesus was referring to in this passage is specific to the bonds that can imprison our very souls. From some people’s countenances, we judge them to be happy. Smiles, makeup, and stylish clothing and possession can create an appearance of inner peace. Internally, though, many are in bondage.
In Touch Ministries has this to say about Christ’s liberating work:
“First, Jesus breaks the chains of sin. All people have broken God’s law and consequently live apart from Him (Romans 3:23). But Christ’s death and resurrection free us when we accept His gift of forgiveness and place our trust in Him. Then we can have a relationship with the Lord.
Secondly, He liberates us from persistent sins like jealousy, bitterness, and gluttony. His Spirit resides within each believer and provides the power to overcome wrong choices that seem to “own” us. He enables us to do what He desires by bringing immediate healing or by giving guidance and strength in the ongoing battle.”
That’s good isn’t it! The Creator of mankind made us with a void in our hearts for Jesus to fill. Everything we put there…whether it seems like a good thing at the time or an obvious bad choice…will ultimately leave us empty. And we will remain in bondage until God frees us and then provides the only true satisfaction.
Are you one of those people who appear happy and seem to have life figured out, and yet inside feel uneasy or empty? Jesus Christ is the only one who can redeem you, forgive your sins, and fill the vacant place in your soul. It is an INTENTIONAL choice to allow Him to liberate you from the bondage of sin.
