Read: Romans 5:1, 6-10
Memory Verse: Romans 5:8
But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
The Arizona Memorial is a testimony of a brutal, infamous attack by Japan on America on December 7, 1941. Japan was a bitter enemy of our country for four years, committing countless atrocities and acts of violence against us during that time. Almost 112,000 Americans were killed by the Japanese and another 253,000 wounded.
Yet, today the Japanese are considered one of our closest allies, and thousands are welcomed into Hawaii every year, many even visit the Arizona Memorial and are welcomed. How could someone who was once considered our greatest enemy become one of our closest friends?
It happened because Japan unconditionally surrendered on September 2, 1945. Full surrender brought peace to the country of Japan and changed our relationship with them from that day forward. In contrast, a truce was signed between Korea and the United States on July 27, 1953. Although fighting ceased, we are still enemies with North Korea today, almost 70 years later.
Japan has been “justified”! What they did can never be justified, but we treat them “just as if they never sinned” because they surrendered and asked for peace. We are reconciled! Do you have a truce with God or peace with God? Peace can only come with complete surrender. You can only be justified through full surrender to His Son, Jesus Christ who died for you!
Meditation for the Day: Spend time thinking about how God has forgiven you of all your sin and now calls you His friend! John 15:13-15
Assignment: Take the time to list areas of your life that you have not fully surrendered to the Lord. Give them over to God and stop fighting Him in those areas.
For Fun: Watch the video of the surrender ceremony on the Battleship Missouri. Think back to when you completely surrendered to God for salvation and dedication.