March 30, 2019

Thin Places

Romans 8:28-39

In all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.

—  Romans 8:37

This month we have looked at what it means to be prophets and priests and to serve our Lord as kings and queens. All people who believe in Jesus as Lord and Savior share these roles as God works in us and through us to make us more like him.

Celtic spirituality speaks of “thin places,” where the natural and spiritual come together, as if separated only by a thin veil. Many examples in nature reveal this. We see it in the beauty and intricacies of flowers and fruit trees, the human body, coral reefs, majestic mountains, and much more. We see it in the delicate balance of countless species that depend on each another. There are also times when our prayers and Scripture reading come alive and we sense the Holy Spirit at work. We can also see this in good literature based on Jesus’ teaching, and in world affairs in which leaders aim to do what is right and good for all people.

When we think of ourselves as prophets, priests, and kings and queens, we find our identity. The Lord and King who loves us has brought us into fellowship with himself. Our task is to have faith and believe and to show that God reigns in our lives.

Today, live like a child of the king, a priest of the Lord, and a prophet of the most high God.

Father God, remind me today of who I am—that I am your beloved child and that you care for me. You love me so much that you sent your Son to die for me. May I follow you in faith and obedience. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

About the author — Pete Byma

Pete Byma has served as a pastor of congregations in Michigan and in Washington state. Serving now as a pastor in Grand Rapids, Michigan, he is also a consultant/coach for churches experiencing conflict, and he enjoys equipping and establishing people in ministry. He is married to Cheri, and they have four grown children and six grandchildren. Pete is also a registered soccer official and enjoys bicycling.

Let the Today Devotional be your guide in this season of Lent.

Get a special series of daily devotions called "Focus on the Cross" to help you focus on the depth, beauty, and mystery of Christ's death and resurrection.