14 For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. 15 For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, “Abba! Father!” 16 The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, 17 and if children, then heirs (Romans 8:14-17)
Yesterday we talked about labels. As we begin in Christ, we are made alive. This goes beyond a simple heartbeat and into a rich and challenging walk towards passion. Another label we receive is that of adoption. In Romans 8 we see Paul hammer this idea home. Words like “children” “adoption” “sons” and “heirs” are generously sprinkled in these few verses. Like grace, once this adoption is received, there is no turning back or disownment. You are now and forever in the family. One pastor described this as a wealthy and loving father coming into an orphanage, pointing out the worst kid and saying “that one, he is my heir”.
We now have a different last name in a sense. Growing up, my name meant little to me. It represented infidelity and destruction. But just like the redemption found in the name of Christ, there is redemption in our earthly lineage. A new marriage has made me dream of a new vision. Within our union, we can give the name worth – rescuing it from the grasp of broken men. Perhaps in the end of my days we will glance back and the name our union shares will be known for faithfulness, stubborn grace, and uncharacteristic love. This can only be said when under the enveloping shadow of the sonship from God.
What does your last name mean? If you are a follower of Christ, it has tremendous worth. You are brought into a family that will love you in your flaws and draw out of you the best in your character. You were reborn and now renamed. Today, it’s time to live like it.
Lord, thank you for privilege of being in your family. Teach us to live out of that identity – the only one that matters. May we welcome those you call your own and may we seek to help the adoption process of those still in fear.
Matt simon blog 