Galatians 2:20

I used to say Galatians 2:20 was my “life verse.” I think it probably still is, although I’ve come to embrace other verses as well. But I remember sitting in the tiny room in Waco Elementary School where I gave music lessons, and coming across this verse as I read my Bible during my lunch break. It spoke to me that day in a pointed way, and I sat there and memorized it, claiming it as my life verse.

Today I read it and wonder if it is even true in my life.

What does it mean to be crucified with Christ? I can’t die for my sins like Jesus did. I’ve heard it said Jesus died on “my” cross. But that cross was His. He was the only one who could hang on that cross. And because He did, I won’t have to hang on mine.

Being crucified with Christ is not the means of salvation. That was Jesus’ job.

I believe Paul was talking about what happens after we accept Jesus’ atoning work on His cross. It’s the dying we do as willingly as He died; the giving up, the surrender of the “me.” Dead men have no rights, no plans, no will of their own. A dead man is dead – not almost dead, or dead in some ways but not others.

Dead.

So I’m wonder if that describes me in my relationship with my Savior. Is the life I now live lived by faith in the One who loved me enough to die in my place? Is my walk with Him surrendered to His will? Is He my co-pilot… or the ship?

If 2:20 is my life verse (and I think I might claim it once again), then I have some soul-searching and changing to do.

God, help me truly and finally die to Connie, and allow only You to fill me, raise me up, and live through me.

Crucify the “me,” Lord.