Romans 5:1-2

Romans 5:1-2
1 Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ,
2 through whom also we have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we exult in hope of the glory of God.

These two verses are an amazing summary of the purpose and accomplishments of Jesus. I am justified by faith. Not by works or accomplishments. Not by emotions or emotional state. Not by any form of political creed. Only by faith in Jesus.

Mankind’s long war with God is over. We can call that war a result of sin or a result of human nature. We have been in conflict God and now are not. But God’s peace is not just the absence of conflict. It “passes understanding;” it is a spiritual force in its own right. However, that peace is not a goal; not a weapon; not a political agenda. That peace, and the justification it springs from is “through our Lord Jesus Christ.” It has no other source, no other mediator. He alone provides the introduction and the access to the grace we stand in.

We believe that Jesus is our savior and our lord. As a result, we receive a permanent gift of salvation and, from it, peace.

Jesus, You are my access, my doorway to peace with God. And I have this access as a free gift. I have done nothing to deserve it. And I am grateful.