Cristo 3: Outstretched Arms

How many times I yearned to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her young under her wings, but you were unwilling!

— Matthew 23:37 NAB

He is there. Longing for us, wanting to show His love and care, yearning for relationship with us.

But we are busy pursuing our own happiness and not paying any attention to Him. The sky is blue and the weather pleasant.

His outstretched arms are like wings wanting to gather His children close. We remain oblivious — deaf and dumb to his invitation.

So He stretched out his arms in a different way, one that required unspeakable anguish. And therein he saved us while we were yet sinners (Romans 5:8).

When will we turn and notice Christ — our Redeemer who is waiting for us?

Prayer

Forgive us Lord for not desiring You. Do whatever it takes to rescue our wayward hearts.

Quote

Grace is necessary to salvation, free will is equally so; but grace in order to give salvation, free will in order to receive it. //St. Bernard of Clairvaux (1090-1153 AD)

Thought

As a toddler stretches his arms upwards to be held, so we can reach up to Him, knowing we will always be welcomed into His loving embrace.

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~ Up next week — Cristo: The Highest for the Humble

~ On Monday, December 22nd, you can find a additional "Cristo" devotion on my Substack page. Check it out!

~ For the caregiver you know: Minding Mom: A Caregiver's Devotional Story

~ Sharing here the third episode in the Open Doors Podcast Advent series. Enjoy!

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