Good Morning All,

Greetings in the Name of Jesus, Savior and Lord

March 8, 2010 

Check out today’s reading in Ex 19:3-5, “Then Moses went up to God, and the LORD called to him from the mountain and said, "This is what you are to say to the house of Jacob and what you are to tell the people of Israel: 4) 'You yourselves have seen what I did to Egypt, and how I carried you on eagles' wings and brought you to myself. 5) Now if you obey me fully and keep my covenant, then out of all nations you will be my treasured possession. . ..” NIV

God delivered the children of Israel out of Egypt in a powerful way.  He now gathers them around Mt. Sinai and tells them that they are His “treasured possession.” Take a moment to let that soak in. They/We are His “treasured possession.” This is the same group that left Egypt doubting, complaining, and filled with fear.  These “treasured possessions” are the same one who whined and begged to “go back.”

I find it amazing that God chose them/us as His own.  And not just His own. He gives us the title, “treasured possession.”  Recall the treasured possessions in your life…remember that stuffed animal that had it’s fur rubbed off from attention and love? Remember that “blankie” that had the satin hem that was tearing loose from being drug around everywhere? Remember loved ones far and near?  God calls us His “treasured possession.”  That is quite a position.  That is quite a title.  He tells us that He carried us on eagles’ wings and that He has brought us to Himself.

A treasured possession is first of all loved. Just loved, not for what it brings to the relationship. It just happens to be on the receiving end of someone’s loving embrace and care.  Such is our status with God.  It is not what we bring to this relationship that makes us God’s own treasured possession.  We are that possession through the sacrificial work of Jesus Christ on the cross.

Heb 9:22, “In fact, the law requires that nearly everything be cleansed with blood, and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.”  NIV

We are God’s.  We are His treasured possession because we are forgiven.  It is in this incredible loving embrace that he now asks of us to fully obey His commands.  Such is a “treasured possession. – One who responds to God’s powerful embrace with like grace and style to win over other “treasured possessions.”

How’s that loving rubbing of God going for you?  Let me know -- kwaetzig@stpaulstracy.org. Have a great week.

Pastor Kal

Rubbed and carried about in the grip of God’s love and grace