We often hear dire warnings about the mark of the beast, and it is a topic of significance. It is even more important, however, to understand we are “marked” by God. He marks us for protection, favor, calling and assurance of faith.
There are a number of scriptural examples, but we will just look at a few. God instructs Ezekiel to warn Judah of coming destruction. In Chapter 9, Ezekiel is directed to commission a scribe with a writing pen to mark the forehead of those who “sigh” for their city’s sin (a type of intercession.) Those marked will be spared.
You will all remember the account of the exodus of the children of Israel from their enslavement in Egypt. Instructions were given to apply the blood of the Passover lamb to their doorposts so they could be spared the death of the firstborn of their children and animals. Their obedience to mark their entryway protected them from this tragic outcome.
When we read the new Covenant, we see the ultimate mark of God. He writes the law in our hearts when we believe in and receive Jesus and the work of the cross. This mark of God spares us from ultimate destruction. I envision the internalizing of that transaction when we take the wine in communion, reminding me that I am marked for Him on the inside – the heart.
As a “marked “people, we are covered and protected from so many things. Do terrible things still happen? We know they do. What is lovely, righteous, and good will prevail, sometimes here but always in heaven, our ultimate home.
~ Nan Robertson
Christ Fellowship