Christian Living

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Larry Lilly's Letter Monday July 31, 2006

I am told by folks whom I deem smarter than me, a small group I might add, that the word "bless" is a powerful word in religious circles. I did not believe them mostly because the commentaries say little or nothing other than that it means 'happy' 'fortunate.' While this is true it is also lacking in the primary meaning from the etymological perspective.

Webster says:

Etymology: Middle English blessen, from Old English bletsian, bletsian, bledsian, from blod blood; from the use of blood in consecration or sacrifice.

Taking this into consideration puts the word in proper balance for the Christian as we understand all the blessings of our life as believers are based on the blood relationship between Christ and us.

I like the phrase, "To mark with blood."

The phrase carries the idea that when we are marked with the blood of Christ we are set apart from those who are not marked in such a manner. It shows that we belong to Christ, and that the blood mark, the blessing identifies us as under special protection, with divine retribution promised to any and all who violate us in any way. Even God the Father is on record that upon observing the blood He will pass over us.

In most cases where the word bless is used in modern times the biblical meaning is ignored, yet without the biblical meaning the 'blessing' has little or no meaning. It makes sense to me that to be 'marked with the blood of Christ' is much better that my stock portfolio increasing. (No worry here, none to increase).

Tragically many of the songs of the faith have changed the word blood to something else, even to the point that too many of the 'modern' translations substitute other words for blood. This is a shame.

Why the trend to downplay the blood of Christ? The Bible claims the blood is precious meaning it is without comparable value, there is nothing to compare the blood of Christ to in earth or heaven. Much more is said about His precious blood.

I don't know about you, but I am thankful that although it may invisible to the naked eye, I am marked with His blood and therefore I am blessed for all the good things that come from God as a result of this marking.

This idea so gripped me this morning at 3:05 that I wandered through the house singing my version of 'Bless This House.' It comes out, "Mark with thy blood this house O Lord I pray…"

Larry Lilly Copyright © 2006 Use with credit

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