Looking Unto the Cross..... A devotional for day 15 of LENT Friday, March 24

Is Chist Alone? The spell check feature on a computer is a tremendous tool. It relieves us of responsibility for our errors, and is always quick to provide an "alternate" choice. And although some of those choices may be far from our original meaning, sometimes they get used just because they sound better. The thesaurus is another favorite tool. While it is convenient, and can supply just the right word, far too often it is used to take a simple concept and make it hard to understand. And sometimes simple is better. One of the newest features is the grammar check. It allows the computer to methodically and mechanically review the grammar and sentence structure, and then provide suggestions for improvement. The software is programmed to follow specific grammar rules, and to offer alternatives based on those rules. While the concept sounds good, it can be the most dangerous feature of all. By its dogmatic resolve to "follow the rules no matter what," the grammar check can make some very obvious errors. The difference between a question mark and a period can change your life. In Christ alone I place my trust and find my glory in the power of the cross. In every victory, let it be said of me, my source of strength, my source of hope Is Christ alone? Is Christ alone? No, it was supposed to be, "In Christ alone." Period. End of sentence. It was a statement of faith, and it was written to resound powerfully as it was sung. But instead it asked, "Is Christ alone?" Is He alone in His passion for the lost? Is He alone in His pain for the hurting? Is He alone in being willing to sacrifice so that others can have eternal life in Heaven? Is Christ alone? Have we allowed those alternate choices to take off our "edge?" Have we opted for ease rather than righteousness? In trying to make the gospel attractive have we made it inaccessible? Or have we doggedly applied our rules, walking in the path of the Pharisees rather than in the shadow of the cross? Is Christ alone? Anne Baldridge Springfield, IL USA Heavenly Father, You have done so much, and I can do so little on my own. My shortcomings are of consequence and reflect not only on my humanity, but on the quality my reliance upon you for guidance in all things. I know I can't be perfect, but help me to live so that others may see that you are my all in all, and that your grace is far better than even the best I might possibly be. Amen Suggested Daily Scripture Reading [Psalm 69] [Gen. 43:1-15] [ I Cor. 7:1-9] [Mark 4:35-41] Visit: 1999 Advent/Christmas Series Epiphany Series You may send e-mail comments or suggestions toYvonne Edwards. Edited: Mar. 23, 8:00 p.m. Page designed by:Cecil Wallace Prayer by: Joe Hittle The background set is provided by Heavens Designs Copyright © 2000 NazNet All rights reserved. International copyright secured.