February 22nd

February 22nd

Read: John 15:12-14; Hebrews 10:9-10;  1 Corinthians 15:1-58

Two of the presidents whose birthdays we celebrate this month, Washington and Lincoln, chose paths which were neither safe nor secure at moments in their service to their country. George Washington risked all on the Christmas Eve he crossed the Delaware River with his troops to surprise a British encampment … He was a man who had few comfort zones. Valley Forge in the winter was not one, certainly. Abraham Lincoln risked his career and lost his life in the emancipation decisions to which he led our republic. He was not much for playing it safe.

Jesus Christ had few comfort zones either. His only real security, like Washington’s and Lincoln’s, lay in His Heavenly Father. His only motive was love as He went to Calvary. By risking all, He gained everything … resurrection for us!

RESURRECTION
When we choose but the safe and sure,
The things that seem the most secure,
When in our warm cocoons we stay,
The chrysalis of everyday,
And ne’er emerge
To pass the verge
Of earthbound dream,
To come from dark obscurity to light,
To soar on wings made stronger by their flight, 
And ne’er from beauty’s sweet cup drink,
And never hover on the brink
Of life astream with resurrection, 
We are yet dead.
By risking life, new life we gain; 
By risking love, we may attain, 
Though we have bled
Or passed through shadow, 
All the sun kissed height
Of freedom’s wings, ascendant in our flight.

Prayer: Dear Lord, I thank You that I may live in eternity with You because of Calvary. Help me to trust You for everything in my life. Show me where to take risks for Your life to be manifested first in me and then in others whom I may touch in love.