END TIMES READING PLAN: Daniel 8-9
SCRIPTURE READING
2 Corinthians 5:17-19 (ESV); Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The
old has passed away; behold, the new has come. All this is from God, who through Christ
reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation; that is, in Christ God was
reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting
to us the message of reconciliation.
In Eden, there was perfect relationship between God and man. God called His creation
“very good” because there was completion and perfection. However, Adam’s sin caused
the very nature of humanity to be “very bad.” The bliss of Eden was ruined by sin and
the consequence was felt most deeply in the relationship between God and man as
brokenness put a chasm between them.
We know the effect that brokenness has on a relationship. There is a chill in the air.
Hostility at worst and cordiality at best replace warmth and intimacy. Sin leaves pain and
awkwardness in its wake. What a blessing that Jesus’ atonement brought reconciliation and
wholeness to our relationship with God. The chill has disappeared and the gap has been
closed so that we are truly permitted to come before God and get to know Him as a Person.
Not only did Christ reconcile us to God, but He gave us the ministry of reconciliation – the
mission to show others the way back to a restored and renewed relationship with the
Father. It’s incredible enough that God has reconciled us to Himself, let alone that He now
asks us to PARTNER with Him in bringing this message to others!
PRAYER and MEDITATION
1) Meditate on the word “reconciliation” and its meaning. What images come to mind when
you think about this? Ask the Holy Spirit to give you a clear understanding what it means
to be reconciled.
2) How can this image of the cross help you in sharing the Gospel? Who would really
benefit from hearing about the images of the cross, and how can you engage in
conversation with them?
3) How can your relationships show others the reconciliation of Christ? Does your marriage
illustrate this principle to your kids? Does your family illustrate this principle to your
friends? How do you need to grow in keeping reconciled relationships?
