The Die is Cast

“Alea iacta est!”

To many, this may appear merely gibberish or some form of mad gab. But I assure you, these words carry meaning. In fact, the words were proclaimed as world history as we know it was altered. 

On January 10, 49 B.C. Julius Caesar spoke these words as he crossed a narrow stream known as the Rubicon, officially making him an enemy of the powers of Rome and sparking a civil war that would end the Roman Republic. 

From Latin to English, this means “the die is cast.” In stepping across the Rubicon, he made his intentions known and therefore, he was past the point of no return. 

I find it funny that this once popular saying did not stand the test of time. 

Rather, his action is what is remembered. This is where we get the phrase, “Crossing the Rubicon.” This phrase signifies a crucial moment in the life of a person and landmark action. 

The implications of his action far superseded the lot he was dealing with. Talk alone often cannot stand. 

If we talk about action, but never act, our talk is void. 

We serve a Savior, not familiar with bluffing. He had a saying Himself signifying a point of no return. On the cross when He cried, “It is finished” (John 19:30)!

Now as a result of His Words and action, we can have our Rubicon moment. A defining moment when we believe in His Christ’s finished Gospel, and enter a war with the flesh with the victory assured.  

A Rubicon moment that is like Caesar’s-

Changes everything.

It changes our internal government, and we are no longer slaves to sin but servants of God (Romans 6:17-18).

Our nourishment is fed no longer with the empty calories’ society provides, but rather the Bread of Life (John 6:35). 

Like never before, His imputed righteousness brings value to once void words and deeds (2 Corinthians 5:21).

This is the God we serve. No die could catch Him off guard, He splits the waters we dread, and He finishes what He begins (Philippians 1:6). 

Amen.