A "dynamic and substantial" relationship with Jesus Christ

"It was to show his righteousness at the present time, so that he might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus" (Rom. 3:26-ESV).

Christ, Pantokrator (Gr. Παντοκράτωρ) is used in the Septugaint to translate both "LORD of hosts"s and "El Shaddai" which title has been attributed to Christ by Christians since the beginning of the Church

"God's righteousness is Christ Himself (1 Cor. 1:30- ESV). To have His righteousness is to have Christ living within us, to be in union with Him, a relationship that is dynamic and substantial," meaning, among other things, not sentimental, which falls more into the realm of longing for something you don't have. The fulfillment of anyone's desire to be in union with Christ hinges on his willingness to be changed. "It is personal, a relationship between Shepherd and sheep, Master and friend, Father and child - not judge and defendant" (footnote to Romans 3:26 Orthodox Study Bible). It is good to be reminded of this as we begin our season of preparing for our celebration of the Lord's Nativity because all our observance is geared towards opening us to God's grace, who is none other than Christ the Lord

All holy men and women, pray for us