So, is the world going to hell in a handbasket? Many Christians seem to think so, and while the prospect saddens them, and they may become angry at those they hold responsible for it all, there doesn’t seem to be all that much we can do. But what about Jesus? Today’s reading from Joy to Your World! is found on pages 14 and 15:
“Jesus came to destroy the works of the devil (1 Jn. 3.8). The devil led Adam and Eve to sin, and Jesus came to undo that work. The sin of Adam and Eve spread to the entire cosmos, all human culture and every society, tribe, and nation. Jesus came to undo that work. The joy of the Gospel involves a great reversal of everything that brings misery, hurt, pain, sorrow, disappointment, despair, and death to human beings.
“Jesus said that knowing Him liberates people from the power of the devil and the sorrowful, sinful life of rebellion and disobedience against God (Jn. 8.32). Wherever the Bringer of Joy imparts His great gift, the beneficiaries of that joy extend its power to the environment in which they live, move, and have their being. The blessings of joy that believers know in Jesus Christ begin to be known in every area of their lives. Sin is resisted and overthrown. Sorrows are wrapped in unshakeable Kingdom joy, and borne with dignity and rejoicing. Like some reversed Pig Pen – the Peanuts character who, even in the snows of Christmas, exudes a cloud of dust wherever he goes – Christians are a fragrance of righteousness, peace, and joy to everyone they meet, and they leave the stamp and evidence of these Kingdom virtues and affections in every space they inhabit.”
For reflection or discussion
1. How have you experienced this “great reversal” in your own life?
2. Can you think of some ways, throughout history, that Christians who were experiencing the great reversal have made a great reversal impact on their times? For example, like Wilberforce and the slave trade?
We need this great reversal now more than ever in our lifetime. We need Christians to join the work of Jesus in overthrowing the work of the devil and overcoming evil with good. Share today’s podcast with a friend and use the questions above to encourage one another in this joyous reversal of grace. Order your copy of Joy to Your World! from The Ailbe Bookstore.
