A Community of Grace »

When a small pebble is tossed into a still pond, it causes the surrounding water to ripple outward in concentric circles. Similarly, a single event, act or choice can have multiple, far-reaching effects. A well dug in an impoverished area provides clean water, resulting in less disease and improved health for the people. As a result, the quality of education rises and the level of employment increases. World events such as natural disasters and the threat or onset of war effect financial markets. The market’s response ripples outward to national economies, and ultimately to the citizens. Is anything in this life exempt from a ripple effect?

The effect of Jesus’ death and resurrection has life-altering implications on us today:

“Just as the result of one trespass was condemnation for all men, so also the result of one act of righteousness was justification that brings life for all men” (Romans 5:18).

“Just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life” (Romans 6:4b).

Because Jesus was obedient to the Father, bearing our sins on the cross, we can live a new life: empowered by His Spirit and free from sin. According to Scripture:

“…the benefit you reap leads to holiness, and the result is eternal life” (Romans 6:22b).

Yet the ripple effect of our everyday choices can thwart our experience and enjoyment of this new life. Every thought, every small decision, every word spoken has ripple effects. Consider, what will “ripple” from dwelling on a lie-based thought versus taking that thought captive and meditating instead on what God says is true. Think about the ripple effect of diligently seeking God versus making your relationship with Him a low priority.

Do you look for immediate gratification in the “pebbles” you cast throughout each day? Like Jesus, let’s consider the ripple effect of every choice:

“…who for the joy set before Him endured the cross.”

Hebrews 12:2

The most famous fictional superhero of all time is Superman. Originating from another planet, he possesses superhuman strength and abilities. Superman uses his powers to fight evil, uphold good and protect the innocent. In his secret identity as Superman, the shy Clark Kent rises up with steely resolve to face injustice. His civilian character is transformed to match the boldness of his superhero costume.

Why is Superman so revered in our culture? Deep within us is the recognition that we need a savior from the besetting evils that confront us as individuals and a society. We esteem the character of a superhero and long to emulate his goodness.

The greatest living superhero of all time came down from heaven, born supernaturally from Mary’s womb. Mary wondered how this could be.

“And the angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; and for that reason the holy offspring shall be called the Son of God” (Luke 1:35).

The eternal superhero was named Jesus, meaning “savior.” He was God incarnate, stepping out of the glory of heaven, veiled in human flesh, to save His people from their sins.

Captive to the dominion of Satan’s lies and selfish desires, we were prisoners needing to be set free. Clothed in love, humility, righteousness and justice, Jesus came to earth as our superhero to undo and destroy the works of the devil who ruled over us. He accomplished our salvation through His death and resurrection upon the cross. He has made you His child, an heir of His holiness and supernatural strength through faith in His name.

Are you keeping your Superhero’s glorious identity hidden by relying on your own strength in difficult circumstances? Let Him burst forth and reveal Himself to you in His true glory and power. Receive and believe His words. Exchange your old wretched garments of unbelief, pride and self-sufficiency for His distinctive garb of humility and love. Surrender to the authority of His wonder-working Spirit. The ultimate Superman will deliver you safely through every circumstance, revealing the power of His name.

“Great is our Lord and mighty in power; His understanding has no limit.”

Psalm 147:5

Most people love a good story. Combine drama, romance and suspense with a well-placed music score and many of us will sit in a crowded theater, eating overpriced, nutritionally void food, and call it entertainment. We like to be thrilled and inspired by a good storyline.

We all have a story. Yet the very elements — the drama, romance and suspense — we love in a good movie or book can be the source of suffering in our own lives. For the difficulties and tragedies that are part of our stories, as well as the ones we will walk through with others, may the words of the psalmist be our guide:

“This is my comfort and consolation in my affliction: that Your Word has revived me and given me life” (Psalm 119:50).

What did the psalmist grasp that could comfort and strengthen our aching hearts, overwhelmed minds and frazzled emotions? The psalmist knew from experience the power of God’s Word. God’s Word revived him. God’s Word sustained him. God’s Word gave him life.

We will experience difficult and painful circumstances. Yet we bring added affliction upon ourselves when we embrace lies about God or fail to believe in His promised provision. King David said, “The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not be in want” (Psalm 23:1). David spoke this truth because in times of affliction he discovered that God was his Shepherd. No matter how his circumstances left him wanting, he did not have to be in want. This experience of God’s provision was and is today — a choice.

God tells us:

“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer” (Romans 12:12).

These three commands work in harmony. You can be patient during times of affliction by placing your hope in who God is and all He has promised for you. Hope comes as you are faithful in prayer. You can speak to God the very truths He has spoken to you in His Word. You can hear God speak His words of truth and comfort back to you.

Viewing his story through the lens of truth, the psalmist found patience and hope as he cried out to God:

“Do good to your servant according to Your Word, O Lord…You are good, and what You do is good” (Psalm 119:65,68).