God’s purpose for us never changes, but we are quite adept at confusing His purposes and persuading ourselves that our twisted purpose is identical with God’s. The temptation is to boast in ourselves. However, we may remain slaves to sin even as we gather to praise God for our freedom in the Gospel. Reformation is not a one-time thing that spreads its blanket over those who celebrate it; reformation is a daily necessity for the Church’s life with God. God is never faithless, but we have been faithless again and again. Reformation is not a time for boasting but of giving thanks that God ever and again invites His people to repent, rely on grace, and be renewed in mission and ministry.
In every generation, no less our own, God calls His people to renewal.
This month we give thanks for a Reformation heritage. We remember though, that a heritage is no substitute for the ongoing work of reformation and renewal in our own time. Such a renewal is possible only as long as we continue faithful in His Word of Law and Gospel. Keeping the distinction between God’s Law and Gospel helps us understand, preserve and pass on the Christian faith.
God’s Blessings to you and your family as the Church celebrates Reformation.
