Transformation

I've been reading Isaiah 61:9 and have been quite impacted by it:

Their descendants will be known among the nations and their offspring among the peoples. All who see them will acknowledge that they are a people the Lord has blessed.

This is a passage speaking of the power of God touching his people and bringing about such a transformation that the nations will recognize it as being the hand of the Lord. We read later on that the transformation will be one of sanctification (lived out righteousness).

Here's what's getting to me: We seem (I seem!) so far from that experience right now. How much I need the mercy of God. I am motivated in a fresh way to pray what Paul prayed in 1 Thessalonians 5:23

May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one how calls you is faithful and he will do it.

Righteousness is our 'legal position' before God because of Christ; Sanctification is our 'living condition' or lived out righteousness. This is a very powerful prayer and promise for us, especially in relation to Isaiah 61 and 62.

Anyhow, that's what's on my mind these days. Today is Friday and tonight we begin the 24 hours of prayer at West Ed. Mall, so I'm quite excited about that. (starts at 7 p.m.)

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