A church marquee caught my attention today as I was driving through Far North Dallas. It was a creative colorful display with a short line of text and a swirling background of the six colors typically displayed on the pride flag. The message stated that “all are welcome” and included the phrase: “becoming reconciled to Christ”. The display piqued my curiosity in two ways.

First, knowing that sinners are indeed welcome to come to Christ, I wondered if this was an invitation to “come as you are” without the expectation of any sort of turning from sin? Or is this an invitation to come to Christ, be forgiven of our sins, but with an expectation to turn from our sins? (see 1 John 3:4 and Romans 7:7 to find out what sin is)

This leads to the second curiosity. What does the phrase “being reconciled to Christ” mean? Reconciliation usually involves a compromise between two or more faulty individuals. But how do you reconcile with a being who has no fault? With whom there is no sin?

There is a biblical holy day (see Leviticus 23) that will be observed on October 12th this year. It is called The Day of Atonement. Reconciliation is a major theme, perhaps the central theme, that is the focus of this day. We’ve got a study guide to help you get a better understanding of this important topic. “Atonement: Removal of Sin's Cause and Reconciliation to God” Get this, and other important study guides, offered free of charge, on the United Church of God website.

By Lynn Leiby

Oct 4th, 2024