I love history, especially Church History. I had the privilege of studying under the world class historian Rev. Dr. Jerald Zeeman who was one of the top Reformation scholars, at that time, in the world. This does not come from Dr. Zeeman, but from my general reading.
It is said of Luther that he began each day quoting Galatians 2:20 and crossing himself. It was his “go to verse” for focus, strength and grace. Luther’s desire was to get people back into the word of God, to understand what grace was all about and to have equal access to God through Jesus Christ. This is what we now know as “the Priesthood of all Believers.” The three cries that came out of the Reformation were sola fide (faith alone) sola scriptura (scripture alone) and sola grata (by grace alone).
This verse was not only applicable to Luther. It has been a favourite verse of many over the ages and is so relevant today. It is a verse that reminds us, everyday, to live in the strength, wisdom and grace of our saviour “who loved (us) and gave himself for (us).” As someone has said, “It is good to mark your Bible, but let your Bible mark you.” This is a good verse to “mark us” no matter what our denominational or association label declares we are. It is a verse for people of faith!
I leave with you William Barclay’s wonderful translation of this verse. I hope it encourages you and empowers you this day but also in the days to come. When you read, it maybe it will help you remember Luther and how it encouraged him.
Barclay: I have been crucified with Christ. True, I am alive; but it is no longer I who live but Christ who lives in me. The life that I am now living, although it is still in the flesh, is a life which is lived in faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. (Westminster Press)
God bless you and keep safe and in the love of Jesus – Pastor Ralph
