We have all heard the call for a "deeper" or more "intimate" relationship with Jesus Christ. And, indeed, our souls long to grow in the "grace and knowledge" of Christ our Savior. Usually we are asked questions like, How often do you read the Bible? or How consistent is your prayer life? If we stop for a moment and reflect on these oft-repeated questions, we should immediately detect a problem. Although no true Christian would admit that they are saved by works, our attitudes and opinions towards Christian maturity reveal a deep-rooted belief that we are kept in a state of grace by our own power. It is as if God "began the work in us," but only "brings it to completion" when we allow.
Perhaps the greatest irony of living the Christian life is that God CANNOT and WILL NOT love Christians anymore than He does at this second. Why? Because His love is based on His Son's work and imputation of righteousness. The Father sees His Son when he looks at us. Drawing closer to the God is a misnomer - we are already intimately and eternally connected to Him. Unless, of course, we think the Father is not intimate with the Son.
The apostles call this being "in Christ." Theologians refer to it as the "mystical union." We are members of Christ's body; living stones in His temple. Christ is the Vine; we are the branches. He is the Head; we are the body.
Our longing for the sinlessness, then, should not rest on our abilities or lack thereof. We should ask ourselves: Are we still sewing fig leaves together for ourselves, or are we wearing the animal skins God has given? May we look to the bruise and battered Savior who lived, died, and rose for us. Let us fix our thoughts on what He has done and is doing. Comfort for the soul can only be found in the soul's Creator. And, gracious God that He is, He has already united us together with Him by giving us Christ's righteousness and the Holy Spirit.
We are already intimate with Him. He has lavished His on love us by making us His children. I believe Calvin was correct when he said "ingratitude" was the chief sin. After all, nothing can separate us from His love; yet, we still sin against Him. I hope that we daily view anew His mercy, grace, and love for us. Only that can motivate us to live lives filled with good works.
For of Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.
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