Who then is the one who condemns? No one. Christ Jesus who died–more than that, who was raised to life–is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us. Rom. 8:34 (NIV)
Heavenly Father, in light of this bodaciously beautiful passage, why do we condemn ourselves? Why do we absorb contempt from others? Why do we listen to the voice of the accuser, slanderer, liar—the devil, who despises Jesus, the Gospel, and us? There is now, and never will be, any condemnation left for our sin (Rom. 8:1). Zilch, nil, nada, naught, goose-egg, zippo judgment is left hanging over us. Astonishing, but it is true.
We will never be more criticized than we were by Jesus’ cross. Yet at the same time, we will never be more celebrated and loved. Because of our sin, Jesus had to die for us; but because of his love, he was glad to do so—the just for the unjust, the lovely for the loveless, the righteous for the rebellious—us, me. This is the measure of how much you cherish us, Father.
We believe the Gospel; but we want to boast more, rest deeper, and rejoice quicker in it. Knowing Jesus is at your right hand praying for us, we enter this day palms up—in gratitude, peace, worship and surrender. So very Amen we pray, in Jesus’ mercy-full and almighty name.
