The cross split time in two

As Christ-followers it is our conviction that the cross and the events that immediately followed it through Pentecost with the outpouring of the Holy Spirit are the pinnacle events of all of history. While the incarnation of Christ changed the way we measured time (BC vs. AD) from a Biblical perspective, everything before these events pointed to and prepared us for them, and everything since points back to and draws energy from them as we anticipate His return.

Events of such magnitude should have an impact on the way we live, beyond just what we do on Sunday mornings. If Christ's work on the cross can split time, it seems to me that it should have a profound and transformational impact on each person. Too often, the modern church in particular, is satisfied with semi-regular attendance on Sunday mornings, an occasional offering (at least as regular as your attendance, but preferably more), and for those that are truly serious, maybe serving in Children's ministry every once and a while. I believe Christ's desire is much higher. His work on the cross set a standard of transformation that He desires to see worked out in us. His death secures forgiveness and justification, while his resurrection secures abundant and eternal life, and His sending of the Holy Spirit provides transforming power. Read and reflect on these passages regarding the impact Christ is to have on the way we live:

• Acts 17:5-7
• Rom 12:1-2
• 2 Cor 3:12-18
• 2 Cor 5:13-20
• Gal 2:19-20
• James 2:14-24

God desires more for us than a merit badge, or lapel pin that we wear alongside our many other badges and pins: "Father", "Student", "Businessman", or "Available". It seems to me that an encounter with Christ deserves more than a change in our Facebook religious views. Are we allowing our encounters with Christ to truly transform us?