Holiness of Heart and Life

The reality of the resurrection should be making a difference in the lives of the people of God.  In fact, it is clear when we read Scripture that God has an ultimate goal in mind with people.  He wants to bring their joys to completion.  He wants to bring true peace and fundamental assurance to the hearts of human beings all over the world.  His one desire is to see people come to him and to allow him to transform them into who he wants them to be.

Many times, we read about God's transforming Spirit in the writings of John.  However, the truth of salvation is sprinkled throughout Scripture, from the Old Testament all the way through the New Testament.  Infusing humanity with God's holiness and love is the point the apostolic witness we read in the epistles.  One example that has spoken volumes to me and continues to speak to me each time I read it comes from 1 Corinthians.  Paul says, "Do you not know that wrongdoers will not inherit the kingdom of God?  Do not be deceived!  Fornicators, idolaters, adulterers, male prostitutes, sodomites, thieves, the greedy, drunkards, revilers, robbers--none of these will inherit the kingdom of God.  And this is what some of you used to be.  But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and in the Spirit of our God."--1 Corinthians 6:9-11

I love this statement from St. Paul!  This is what you used to be.  I certainly see my former self in that list.  However, because of the love of God, he takes something vile, evil, and dirty and cleans it up.  He washes, sanctifies, and justifies his children and turns them into something new...something clean...something that is worthy of inheriting his Kingdom.  That is what true salvation is.

After these verses, St. Paul instructs the congregation in Corinth that they are to live their new lives in accordance with God's design.  They are are reminded that they were "bought with a price" and that because of this, they should "therefore glorify God in [their] body."

Holiness is what I thirst for.  Righteousness is what I desire.  God's Spirit is active in the lives of his children and because of his love he replaces the former desires we had with a desire to serve, love, witness, and teach about what God has done and what he wants to do.

As you listen to the words of this song, allow God's holiness to wash over you and remind you that you are indeed on the road to perfection.  +May God's full salvation graciously enter into your heart as you continue to walk by faith.  Until next time...




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