Newness of Life

Written by: Tom Krenzke
Statistician
Missionary to South Asia

Romans 6:4 (ESV)
We were buried therefore with Him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life.

Our Lord, by His great intelligence, created the universe and our hearts, minds, and souls.  He also established a standard code of morality (Romans 2:15).  Because of the initial wrong-doings of people, we are lost and broken without the goodness and mercy of God.  Through great compassion, Jesus, the Son, was sent to the earth and encouraged people. This included the poor in spirit, those who mourn, the meek, the hungry and thirsty, the merciful, pure in heart, and persecuted (Matthew 5:3-10).  He spent much quality time with 12 individuals (disciples) and showed compassion to thousands who were lost and broken as well.

Jesus was sent to provide mercy, for we will not always do what we ought to do, think what we ought to think, or say what we ought to say; likely many times a day.  There are consequences for this (Romans 6:23).  By His mercy, Jesus paid our debts by being the sacrifice for all.  He stepped in front of us to take the hit and saved our lives.  To validate the legitimacy of this mercy, with life and breath, He conquered death and walked among the people again, as witnessed by hundreds (I Corinthians 15:6) before going back to heaven.

God’s Spirit is present now to continue His work through us in the mission field He called us to. Because of Jesus’ mercy, and with the Spirit, life has meaning and purpose, and this newness of life is available for those who are lost and broken, and believe in Jesus who saved us (John 3:16).  Jesus already showed us what we ought to do, and He demonstrated how to do it with love and kindness.  He wants us to provide food, drink, clothes, and care for the sick, in addition to visiting those in prison (Matthew 25:37-40).  The Spirit moves us and leads us in that work in the hope that all may walk in the newness of life.  Because of Jesus’ victory, newness of life is available.  Death does not need to be final or eternal for people, but rather, a much better life is promised, forever (John 10:27-28).

Prayer:
King of kings, thank You for Your goodness and mercy, and for meaning and purpose. May Your Spirit move me to do what I ought to do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.