Saturday, February 20, 2016
Romans 3:23-24 all have sinned, ... and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.
TODAY
During Lent we follow our Savior as He makes His way to our cross, and on the way we meet enemies like Caiaphas, Herod, and Pilate. We also see His followers. For that we don't have to look far. There's one hanging right next to Jesus on the cross. He is suffering the pains of death, and he hears from Jesus the words of life -- "Today you will be with me in Paradise!"
In Pharaoh's prison, Joseph had to wait a long time before the butler remembered and rescued him, but from the cross Jesus' answer was immediate: "Today!" And the penitent thief was redeemed, rescued, delivered!
There was another penitent there that day. He was a big man. He was tough. You would not have guessed that such a man would spend the night in tears over his sin. But even big guys cry, and this one still looked to Christ. He knew of nowhere else to go, for Christ had the words of forgiveness and eternal life!
And John was there too. He had forsaken Jesus in the garden just like all the rest, and even before that he had not always reflected the Savior whom he followed. All of these were sinners, as were Pilate, Caiaphas, Herod, and you and me. And when Jesus died, He redeemed all. The same "all" who sinned are justified freely through the redemption in Christ Jesus.
What wonderful news! It is not a matter of "if you believe, then God will forgive your sins," as though you hold the key. No. Christ holds the key, and He has unlocked the gates of heaven. It is finished! Believe that you have already been redeemed. Enjoy it now and forever!
