by Kala Loptien

The Great Swap

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

“For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.”

2 Corinthians 5:21 English Standard Version

Did you ever watch the show Trading Spaces? It’s the one where neighbors swap places and redesign a room or space inside the other’s home. (Do you have any neighbors you’d trust to redecorate?) There are a number of other reality shows with a similar concept, in which people trade lives or jobs, or even families for an allotted number of days. Many episodes showcase a certain level of regret (and drama). The best part happens at the end, when (most) people gain some perspective and experience genuine gratitude for their own situation.

I heard a sermon once on this topic of trading. The pastor was speaking to a group of students and spoke in their language. I’m paraphrasing here; but he essentially asked them to imagine taking a test that you know you aced. Then being asked to switch tests with someone who didn’t even come close. I loved the theological symbolism here. Jesus, the Ace. Us humans? Well, you know.

Typically, the way we view a trade is a fair/even/equal exchange. One “good” for another. I think it’s why so often this (very) one-sided grace is complicated and difficult for people to accept or reconcile in their minds. We haven’t done anything to earn this justification. In fact, quite the opposite. We should be receiving the punishment. But that’s not what God wanted. He loved us in spite of our flaws and sent Jesus to ace the test on our behalf. He traded places with us — bearing all our sins, shame and punishment on the cross. The finale displayed an empty tomb, death defeated and a resurrected Savior whose return we steadfastly and eagerly await.

What a swap. What a trade. What a rescue. What great love the Father has for His children. With that in mind, we live our life with perspective and gratitude– letting our light shine as redeemed people.

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado