A Long Time Ago, In A Galilean Far, Far Away

The phrase captures my attention. Those of us who grew up in
the "Star Wars" era (or had kids who did), recognize the play on
words. This particular twist on the phrase comes from a book by
Darin Bowler. Mr. Bowler's book develops a theme much greater
than that of "Star Wars" -- the incarnation, God coming to earth
in human flesh.

Actually, it all began a much longer time ago than even the time
of this Galilean. "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 forefathers, but
with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect.

He was chosen before the creation of the world, but was
revealed in these last times for your sake. Through him you believe
in God, who raised him from the dead and glorified him,
and so your faith and hope are in God." (1 Peter 1:18-21)

But God was not just thinking of that Galilean, but you and me:
"For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be
holy and blameless in his sight." (Ephesians 1:4) As Paul wrote
Timothy, "The mystery of godliness is great!" (1 Timothy 3:16)

Ralph Royse,
Troy, OH