1 Peter 1:17-19 17 Since you call on a Father who judges each person’s work impartially, live out your time as foreigners here in reverent fear. 18 For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your ancestors, 19 but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect.

The heart of the catechism is the Apostles' Creed. The heart of the Creed is Jesus. The heart of Jesus pumps blood. It isn't metaphor or mere idea but vivid reality. Here, God calls you to set your heart on His and to boldly believe that Jesus' blood is for you.

Why does Jesus shed His blood? He wants you, and that's the price (Hebrews 9:22). You were lost and condemned. You deserved only what you had earned: the wages of sin, sin that rejects God and hoards silver and gold as if life depends on it. And yet, your sin and your price did not stop Him.

The limitless one limited Himself to a human body with flesh and blood so that He could spend that flesh and blood on you (Colossians 1:19-20; Hebrews 2:14). He willingly redeemed you by His blood (Hebrews 9:12). Your Redeemer loves you with an everlasting love (Isaiah 54:8). His blood now flows from His cross to you through water, bread, and wine, delivering forgiveness, life, and salvation to you and for you (Hebrews 10:19; 12:24).

This is the central article of the Christian faith. It defies all rational explanation. From God's heart, the blood of Jesus flows. He invites you to believe it's for you. This central truth bleeds onto every other page of the catechism. It flows, transfused, through your veins as well, giving you His eternal life.

What else is there for you to do but set your heart on Him?
--Helping people live life with Jesus everyday,