"My dear children, I am writing this to you so that you will not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate who pleads our case before the Father. He is Jesus Christ, the one who is truly righteous." 1 John 2:1 NLT
Sarah Longwell, a marathon runner and former Marine, was in amazing shape and training for a half marathon when she experienced pain so intense she struggled to walk. After being diagnosed with Deep Vein Thrombosis, Sarah underwent three failed surgeries that only left her tired and searching for answers. Taking matters into her own hands, she did her own research and found a pioneer surgeon who performed two more surgeries that had her feeling like herself again. One of the biggest lessons she’s learned, Longwell said, is to advocate for yourself in the medical arena. Through doing her own research and refusing to accept a quality of life she was unhappy with, Longwell was able to triumph over her DVT and gain a new appreciation for her own capabilities.
And while being our own advocate, or person who pleads the cause of another or ourselves, can help us receive the proper care we need, we can’t plead our own case to receive forgiveness. Thankfully though, we don’t have to. You see, the Bible tells us that "we have an advocate who pleads our case before the Father" for us. "He is Jesus Christ." That means when you and I stand before the Lord deserving of the death penalty because of our sin, Jesus, having already suffered the penalty for that sin, pleads our case and sets us free.
Isn't that a wonderful thought my friend? Because of the sacrifice of our defender Jesus Christ, you and I will not be condemned for our trespasses but will instead be declared "not guilty."
Heavenly Father, thank You for sending your Son to pay the penalty that was rightfully ours to pay. Thank You for loving us so much that You would withhold the judgement that we deserve and instead give us eternal life. What a gracious and loving Father you are. Help us to never take that for granted and to share that Good News with everyone. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.
Happy Running!!!
My defender - Jeremy Camp
No comments:
Post a Comment