"Brief Devotions For Busy Lives" by Rev. Dr. Mary Johnson: 2 Corinthians 3:3

 February 27

"Clearly, you are a letter from Christ showing the result of our ministry among you. This 'letter' is written not with pen and ink, but with the Spirit of the living God. It is carved not on tablets of stone, but on human hearts." -Paul in 2 Corinthians 3:3 (NLT)

How do you feel about writing letters? In an internet age where Emails are more prevalent than handwritten letters, we may find them old fashioned or even tiresome. Yet letters remain valued and important as a permanent record of our history. Have you ever found an old letter tucked away in the back of a drawer from an old friend? It is a heartwarming experience bringing joy and memories of old times, days, and ways we may have forgotten. Such letters are also often filled with great affection and love. They are powerful unlike fleeting Facebook posts or Emails that disappear in time or fade away into an irretrievable computer void. In the 1st century, letters were vital in communicating with others, essential in keeping records, and formed the basis for much of our New Testament today. They were valued, precious, and vital in spreading the gospel. The Roman Empire was highly literate. Paul wrote and spoke in several languages along with Jesus and most of the disciples. Paul uses powerful imagery when he states we are a precious "letter from Christ" written by God's Spirit on our hearts.

What power God has given us! Imagine how differently we would live in God's family if we viewed people in our church community as "letters" written by the Holy Spirit sent to bless us and the places we live in! Whether aware of it or not, YOU are also a letter from Christ and partners with the Holy Spirit in God's work. How we live with our brothers and sisters in Christ directly reflects the kind of letter we are. How are you reflecting God's Spirit this January? If you aren't sure, let Jesus Christ write his awesome words on your heart. Then allow the Holy Spirit to produce the power enabling Christ's presence and love to become obvious to all you encounter. The open letter your life offers is vital, precious, essential, and unique. God has mailed you today to those you encounter to bring his love and Good News to all!

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Prayer: God, Make me your letter of love to all in need. Amen.

Meditation For The Day: Love letters are precious and priceless.

Brief Devotions For Busy Lives: Daily Winter Renewal Paperback – November 25, 2017, by Rev. Dr. Mary Johnson (Author)