January 17, 2014

“And behold, I am sending forth the promise of My Father upon you; but you are to stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high.” Luke 24:49 New American Standard

Jesus spoke into the deepest longing of your life: To be clothed with power to live the life that Christ is living through every aspect of your life. Much of the Christian life is spent trying to live the Christian life .. usually out of your own power or well-intentioned effort. But Jesus is describing something so unique .. so intimate .. and so complete as to make life in him the “source of everything” you do. This is where the real battle begins everyday in the ordinary routines. Jesus intends for your life to be filled with everything that He is .. risen and alive. His promise to you is such a life .. unlike any other life you can ever know on your own. He describes the image of being clothed in the Father’s promise. That promise is a life more alive in love than anyone can imagine. It doesn’t take you out do this world .. but makes you more alive in it. because you now know that Jesus is your life. Behind his life is forgiveness and the message of a new life only available in Him. And before you is His promise of the life you long for .. found in Him .. made real on a cross .. offered freely .. nourishing you completely. Jesus made this promise a long time ago. It is as true today for your life as it was to a confused group of fisherman who wondered what it might mean for the rest of their lives. It changed everything .. and it still does. It only takes a moment …

“We take our lead from Christ, who is the source of everything we do. He keeps us in step with each other. His very breath and blood flow through us, nourishing us so that we will grow up healthy in God, robust in love.” Ephesians 4:16 The Message

Ken Chester: Grace-Gripped is sent M-F to Christ-clothed followers and friends of Priority One(kchesterp1@gmail.com)