Daily Devotions

As we move through  this Advent season we will examine titles given to Jesus, starting with the first designation of Redeemer. The meaning of a “redeemer” comes from the idea of “buying back” or “paying the price” for something or someone considered lost. Slaves could be redeemed by buying them and giving them their freedom.

In the Old Testament, God is called the redeemer because he saved his people from captivity.

However, in the New Testament, the focus falls on Jesus as the redeemer who gives himself to save that which was despised. In other words redemption turns what is worthless into precious beyond  gold. But when it comes to Jesus as Redeemer it is not just some kind of spiritual transaction, in essence, it is the God of Love for us embodied in Jesus.

It was Martin Luther Jr who said, “Love has within it a redemptive power. And there is a power there that eventually transforms individuals. Just keep being friendly to that person. Just keep loving them, and they can't stand it too long. Oh, they react in many ways in the beginning. They react with guilt feelings, and sometimes they'll hate you a little more at that transition period, but just keep loving them. And by the power of your love they will break down under the load. That's love, you see. It is redemptive.”

Charles Dickens’s, A Christmas Carol, offers a familiar and seasonal illustration of the arc of judgment and redemption through the eyes of Ebenezer Scrooge. Tracing his sin of greed through its origins (past), effects (present), and ultimate consequences (future), we see judgment met with redemption and reconciliation. 

Why not prayerful ponder the words of Keith Greens hymn

There is a redeemer,
Jesus, God’s own Son,
precious Lamb of God, Messiah,
Holy One.

Jesus, my Redeemer,
name above all names,
precious Son of God, Messiah,
Lamb for sinners slain.

When I stand in glory
I will see his face
and there I’ll serve my King for ever
in that holy place.

Thank you, O my Father,
for giving us your Son,
and leaving your Spirit
till the work on earth is done. Amen