December 31, 2019

Look to Jesus

Hebrews 12:1-3

When the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman . . . to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption to sonship.

—  Galatians 4:4-5

We have observed many people in Jesus’ family who either anticipated or experienced God’s plan of salvation. We have also seen how, by faith, we can become part of Jesus’ family.

Today marks the end of our month together and the end of another year. Where should we go from here? We end where we began. We can see that the story of salvation and being welcomed into God’s family is all about the God who created us and gives us life. So, as members of Jesus’ family, we are called to “look to Jesus.”

Jesus, the Son of God, the second person of the Trinity, is “the pioneer and perfecter of faith.” He planned the blueprint for our salvation. He died to save us from sin and to restore our relationship with the Father. He is the only Savior. “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name . . . by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12). God has given us the right to be his children by believing in Jesus.

If you are unsure about the meaning or purpose of your life, look to Jesus. He endured the cross to remove your sins and give you eternal life. If you know Jesus as your Lord, keep looking to him in the coming year and beyond, and run with endurance and joy the race that is marked out for you.

Holy Spirit of God, work in our lives so that we may know you as our Savior and joyfully follow you as our Lord. May we always keep our eyes fixed on Jesus. In his name, Amen.

About the author — John Van Schepen

Dr. John Van Schepen is a retired pastor who served churches in Washington, Wisconsin, Indiana, Oregon and California. He and his wife, Willie, have been blessed with five children and several grandchildren.

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