“Luther’s next step” should always always be before us. It’s not only
how we receive Christ, but the way to daily bread. It calls all
attention to the Cross, where the sinless Son of God was orphaned, so
that you might receive an indestructible adoption. Christ, taking our
condemnation, earned for us every commendation from God. You, the
ungodly, were united to Him, the radiance of the glory of God. Jesus is
glad to share this with you. Which means, the very same love Abba has
for his only Son… is now aimed directly at you. God desires you. He is
proud of you. He loves you. Not your Pastor. Not people that keep it
together. Not the best version of yourself. You. And you are just as
much a success in His eyes today as you will ever be.
God speaks this Word of scandalous, sanctifying grace in his Son
alone. His Word is his bond and it seats you where every accusation
against you is turned into a footstool for your feet. It speaks a love
uninterrupted by law. But, you won’t experience freedom if you keep
changing the subject every time He brings it up. You won’t be able to
enjoy it as long as you care more about getting better than you do about
Jesus. Why? Because it’s your present belovedness in Christ that is the
basis for all godly living. It’s through the announcement of the
“already” power of justification that we enter into the joys of the “not
yet” kingdom. Listen to what he thinks of you: “This is my beloved Son,
with whom I am well pleased.” These words belong to you now. They can
no more be taken from you than removed from Christ himself.
John Dink
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