4 But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, 5 even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved (Ephesians 2:4-5)
Last week I got the opportunity to talk to around fifty teens about labels. I’m convinced that no one understand being labeled quite like teenagers. Hearing some of their stories, it became obvious they needed a shift. High school is a jungle. Labels are given in an effort, not to understand, but to degrade others and promote the insecure. The hierarchy of power is very much intact within the hallways.
But not all labels bring death
Christ labels us as well. Here in Ephesians, we see that at conversion, we are labeled alive. This means more than a heartbeat, it means a passionate pursuit. Jesus said that He came to give the abundant life to those who trust Him. In a sense, He gives us a new vision in which to see the world and ourselves. It looks past the demeaning classifications of this fallen world and go directly to the heartbeat of faith. And this is not earned. The grace of God is something we must never get over. This undeserved gift was won for us and must be in constant remembrance lest we forget and let the world define us. As citizens of grace, we must build our walls on the solid foundation of Christ and His redeeming work.
Today, what does it mean to you to be alive? Are you merely existing or are you thriving? Be careful not to listen to the labels of this world. There is a greater mantle waiting for you to live from. Pursue the One who knows you.
Matt simon blog 