As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our flesh and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature deserving of wrath. But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. – Ephesians 2:1-10

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“Alive with Christ, Dead Without”
By Jennifer Kane

I was dead in sin—not just ill. Dead.
Following the world, fading into obscurity,
trying to hide, only to sink deeper,
lost in the dark.
I needed mercy—more than wealth, more than success,
just mercy.

But God, rich in mercy, reached down to me.
His mercy vast, unmeasured, reached
to the pit, to the shadowed depths,
to my mewling, desperate self.

Out of love, He saved me.
Made me alive in Christ,
brought me to life with Jesus.
Saved by grace, an unearned gift—
faith itself, a gift, not my own.
Alien faith, a gift from Him, not from me.
No pride to boast in this.

His work alone, crafted by His hand,
He raised me up, seated me with Christ.
Now, this life reflects the richness,
the true richness of God’s grace to the world.

God, the Master Craftsman, made me with purpose,
uniquely shaped for His will.
Awaken me, deepen our bond,
that I may praise Him,
for His mercy, His grace,
for making me alive in Christ.

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In Ephesians 2:1-10, Paul reveals a stunning transformation that takes place when we are made alive in Christ. Before knowing Him, we were spiritually dead, living in darkness, unable to free ourselves from sin’s hold. This death is not just a moral flaw—it is a state of complete separation from God, a life shaped by cravings and self-focus, far from His holiness.

Imagine a soul confined to a suffocating darkness, where sin feels like the only reality. Yet, because of God’s incredible love, He does not leave us there. “But God,” rich in mercy, reached down and made us alive together with Christ. By His grace—this undeserved kindness—we are given new life. We did not, and could not, earn this; it is His gift to us, bringing us out of spiritual death and into vibrant, purposeful life.

Just as God raised Jesus from the dead, He raises us, seating us with Christ in heavenly realms. This new position is one of complete acceptance and rest in His presence. No longer under condemnation, we now live securely as beloved children, called to reflect His grace and mercy in all we do.

This profound transformation also carries a purpose. Paul tells us that we are “God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works.” We are not merely saved from death; we are saved for a life that glorifies Him. Each of us is a unique expression of His creativity, designed with intentionality to walk in the good works He has set before us. As His workmanship, we carry the light of His grace into the world, showing others the freedom and love we have received.

As we walk this path, we remember that it is grace—not our own strength—that sustains us. The same grace that saved us empowers us daily, reminding us that our worth and purpose are secure in Him. In Christ, we have moved from death to life, from darkness to light, and now live with eternal hope, shaped and purposed by His hand.

Take time today to reflect on God’s transforming work in your life. Where has He brought new life, freedom, or purpose since you began following Him? Write down these reflections as a reminder of His ongoing grace and the purpose He has prepared for you in Christ.

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Heavenly Father, thank You for the incredible gift of new life in Christ. Your mercy is overwhelming, reaching me even when I was lost in sin. Remind me each day that I am Your workmanship, crafted with purpose to share Your love. Help me to live by Your strength, fulfilling the good works You have prepared for me. Let my life bring You glory, as I walk in the light of Your grace. Amen.

November 3 2024