There are a couple over-used phrases employed by Christians that seem to always get under my skin. The first one is “Everything happens for a reason.” The other is the phrase “God has a plan.” The usual context for employing such words is that someone we love had either endured a hardship, injury, death of a loved one, or some other tragedy. It is as if when things go wrong in the life of a Christian, it is because God planned it for some reason.
The truth is, when bad things happen, they do happen for a reason. It is because humanity is captive to original sin and continues to be disobedient to God’s Word. Too often, people put themselves at the center of life, and neglect to live as Christ commands. Our sinful nature leads us to being selfish, vengeful, and to turning our back on our neighbor. This causes pain, suffering, anger and yes, even death. But not to worry, God indeed has a plan.
God’s plan is, and always has been, to save people from their sin. Ever since Adam and Eve bit into the forbidden fruit, God has promised a Savior who would rescue his people from the powers of sin and death. In his infinite love, God offered this Savior in the person of his only Son Jesus Christ. God has a plan. The plan is Jesus. Whoever believes and is baptized shall be saved.
Prayer: Holy God, thank you for rescuing me from my sin through your Son Jesus Christ. Amen.
In the Beginning 