My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have an advocate with the Father—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world 1 John 2:1-2
In some cultures, some types of sins are punished more heavily than others. For example, the woman caught in the act of adultery faced death by stoning, even though the man she was with did not face the same punishment. Fortunately for her, Jesus advocated on her behalf and gave her a fresh start. (Click here to read her story )
Our sins may not be as widely known as hers, but we sin nonetheless. Our sins may not be deserving of such awful punishment. Or they may … Either way; Jesus stands ready to offer us a clean slate. As John wrote, we do not have to sin, but if we do sin, our Righteous Advocate, Jesus Christ will intervene on our behalf!” The enemy of our souls may try to guilt us into hiding our transgressions, but Jesus knows them anyway! Not only does He know them, but His Sacrifice at Calvary was enough to atone for my sins, your sins, and for the sins of the whole world!
What a wonderfully comforting truth!
Inventory/Introspection: How does knowing Jesus is my Atoning Sacrifice affect the way I seek His forgiveness.
Personal Application: Having an Advocate is not a licence to sin
Father, we are so grateful for forgiveness! We are thankful that we cannot amass wealth or sacrificial offerings or riches or deeds to earn forgiveness for sins, and that Your forgiveness is offered freely to all who will ask.
Help us to keep love at the base of what we do. If we love You and our neighbours as You commanded, then we will make every effort not to do anything to negatively impact the relationships. May we never forget that we have a duty to forgive others, even as You forgive us for going off track..
May we experience Your love and grace in a new way this week, and may we be mindful of the opportunities that You give us to share Your love and grace with others.
Amen.
Blessings,
ann
Toni R
(c)
Except where indicated, Scripture taken from THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
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