The possibilities for these transactions are embedded deep in the nature of the life that God creates in Jesus Christ: the ashes of disappointment traded in for the garland of hope, the mourning over sin traded in for the oil of a glad salvation, the faint spirit of depression traded in for the praise mantle of the God who makes all things new. Jesus continues to post his willingness to make the trades. Millions have done it. They continue to do it in this congregation. Jesus Christ is a most welcome trading post.
