DAILY DEVOTIONAL FOR TODAY, OCTOBER 18, 2012
PLANTED TOGETHER
For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection. Romans 6:5
We have been planted together. That means we were sown at the same time, in the same manner; and we shall grow up together in the likeness of Christ. We have been planted in the likeness of his death. For our planting has been that of persecution, ridicule, scorn, hatred, aversion, misunderstanding, confusion. The true Israel of God has died to sin and law, to be raised together in newness of life. Yes, the body of flesh, sin and carnality had to be destroyed, so that God might be glorified through our resurrection, our newness of life.
Do you recall how God planted you in the likeness of Christ's death? Did you go through a process of dying to sin...finally realizing that it had no power to save you? Did God prove to you that it was He alone who would raise you up in newness of life by His Spirit? Did you mourn, resist... and then rejoice?
How wonderful it is to be planted together. To know that I am not alone. To know that he is quickening another at the same time, in the same way--to bring forth a fruitful life. To know that there is another who has suffered the same, who has been loved creatively by the Father through the process of death and burial and resurrection.
Yes, the body of Jesus Christ is one body. Jew and Gentile planted together. Male and Female planted together. Rich and Poor planted together.
Together, Glory be to the Father and to the Son!
