Lenten Love #34

“I, the Lord, probe the heart and discern hidden motives, to give everyone what they deserve, 

the consequences of their deeds.” 

- Jeremiah 17:10, CEB

This verse from Jeremiah spoke to me this morning.  This, like many passages written before Jesus Christ, demonstrate one of the aspect of humanity’s relationship with the Almighty.  God is judge and jury, finding us guilty and then leveling punishment that fits the crime.

But because of Jesus, things changed.  Sure we still have consequences for our actions and there is still suffering in the world because of harm that we do to others.  We are still human after all.  However, Jesus took on the punishment that all of us deserve because of the sin in our lives.  That sin caused separation from God.  Jesus came to be our Advocate and to plead our case before the judge and jury.  This is no more evident than on the cross as Jesus says, “Forgive them, for they know not what they do.”

And with his body he bridged the gap that we had created between ourselves and God and with his arms opened wide on the cross, he invited all to come in.

Friends, Good Friday is coming, but so is Easter. Thanks be to God for both.

Peace,
Brad
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