Scripture for Today:  Ephesians 3:12  “In Him and through faith in Him we may approach God with freedom and confidence.”

Lately, I have been finding limited edition collector plates in thrift stores.  The French and Germans do not always understand pricing on these items and at only one euro, I am not too willing to tell them!  This plate has been prominently displayed in our dining room for years.  I am proud of the part that America played in WWII.  Liberating France was one of our finer moments.  The celebration of freedom pictured here warms my heart.  There is confident joy as this parade makes its way down the boulevard  unimpeded.

Our verse for today speaks of a new freedom we have with God.  There is a new and living Way to enter God’s presence; through His Son, Jesus.  No longer is the system of animal sacrifice needed as Jesus was our perfect sacrifice once and for all (Hebrews 10:19-20).  Because of what Christ did on that cross, I have freedom and confidence to approach the God of the universe in His very throne room!

For the French to spill out on to the street with confidence and celebrate their new freedom, they had to believe the war was really over.  Imagine if they had not believed it but continued hiding in their homes!  Our victory has been secured by Christ, but there is no celebration, freedom, or confidence to approach God without believing in what He accomplished for us!

Because of Christ and my faith in Him, I have daily access to God.  He liberated me at a huge price to make it possible!  No longer do I have to cower in fear and shame for sin.  He invited me close in and lifts up my head.  What freedom!  What confidence!  Thank you, Lord.