by Kala Loptien

A Worthy Life

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking the Sound Cloud link.

For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin.
1 Peter 1:19 English Standard Version

There’s a new(ish) slogan in the fitness world that I see emblazoned on t-shirts and offered as encouragement from instructors: Progress over Perfect. It’s one of those supportive statements that feels patronizing…and at the same time, a bit freeing. You mean we don’t have to be all things to all people at all times? Meet every expectation? Be flawless?

Perfection is a problem. It’s something society likes to tempt us with. It can quickly lead to idolatry. Not to mention, it’s something the enemy uses in his attempts to prove we are not enough. We know it’s unattainable, and yet at times we place unrealistic pressure on ourselves and our loved ones.

Here’s the good news: Jesus IS our perfect. In fact, there’s not even a human word that comes close to describing His divine perfection. He lived perfectly and He died perfectly so that we could proudly receive redemption of our souls. He’s better than perfect; and we are in desperate need of Him.

Micah Tyler sings an incredible song titled, Different, in which the bridge says:

I know that I am far from perfect. But through you the cross still says I’m worth it. So take this beating in my heart and come and finish what you started. When they see me, let them see you. 

What a thing — to be rescued, redeemed, justified and made perfect in Christ. What a life and calling we now get to live. Jesus over Perfect. That’s my new motto. I want to see people like He did. I want to love like He did. I want others to know that He is the reason for our hope.

Jesus, thank you for being our perfect. Amen.

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado