Galatians Day 15 - Bearing the Marks of Jesus

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Galatians Day 15 – Galatians ‪6:11-18‬

This letter is deeply personal to Paul. As he brings it to a close, he excuses his transcribing companion and grabs the pen and parchment. Pouring out more of himself, Paul pens the final paragraph. “See with what large letters I am writing to you with my own hand.” (Galatians 6:11)

After reinforcing his message of salvation alone through Jesus, Paul closes with these words, “From now on let no one cause me trouble, for I bear on my body the marks of Jesus.” (Galatians 6:17)

Paul physically bears on his body the marks of Jesus. In preaching the gospel he is beaten, stoned, shipwrecked and imprisoned (2 Cor 11:23-25). Many Christians around the world still physically bear the marks of Jesus.

But there are unseen marks as well. Jesus tells us there is a cost to following Him. It comes in different forms at different times, but we will be in positions where we will bear painful marks of a follower. There will also be times where we will bear beautiful marks of a follower – the marks of the fruit of the spirit, the marks of bearing one another’s burdens, the marks of serving others, the marks of love.

What marks are you willing to bear for Jesus?

What matters to you so much, you are metaphorically writing it in big letters as this year comes to an end and you look forward to a new start?

“The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit, brothers. Amen.” (Galatians 6:18)

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Ten Thousand Villages creates opportunities for artisans in developing countries to earn income by bringing their products and stories to markets through long-term, fair trading relationships.  Over $140 million in sustainable income has been earned by makers who would otherwise be unemployed or underemployed since their founding in 1946.

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