The Perfect Substitute

“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith. This was to show God’s righteousness, because in his divine forbearance he had passed over former sins. It was to show his righteousness at the present time, so that he might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus.”
(Romans 3:23-26 ESV emphasis mine)

Several weeks ago I wanted to substitute my well-trusted detergent with a cheaper one. I believed the promise of the commercial that it would do just a great job as the other, more expensive ones. I should have known better. I fell into the trap of promises made by an ad campaign.

Many fall into a different trap; the trap of salvation. “All religions lead to heaven” they are being told; you just have to be good enough, do enough good works, and the pearly gates of heaven will open for you.

It took me many years to realize that I never can be good enough to make it on my own to heaven. I listened to the world: “Do good and all will end well”.

I love Jesus’ conversation with the rich young man recorded in Matthew 19:

And behold, a man came up to him, saying, “Teacher, what good deed must I do to have eternal life?” And he said to him, “Why do you ask me about what is good? There is only one who is good. If you would enter life, keep the commandments.” He said to him, “Which ones?” And Jesus said, “You shall not murder, You shall not commit adultery, You shall not steal, You shall not bear false witness, Honor your father and mother, and, You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” The young man said to him, “All these I have kept. What do I still lack?” Jesus said to him, “If you would be perfect, go, sell what you possess and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me.” When the young man heard this he went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions.
(Matthew 19:16-22 ESV ~ emphasis mine)

There is always something that I lack on a daily basis. Mostly that I do not love my neighbor as myself. Sometimes I have a hard time loving the unlovable, the difficult people in my life…

I am thankful that God gave me a way to spend eternity with Him. He sent His Son as my Substitute. He paid my penalty of death (Romans 6:23). The greatest thing about the Substitute is that is is not just for me but for all who put their trust in Jesus.

Lord of Heaven and Earth. Thank You that there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. You sent Your Son to be our substitute in order for us to spend eternity in heaven with You and those who went before us. Lord, give us the words to share this incredible story with those we come in contact with. Help us to love the unlovable so that they may see You in us. In the precious name of Jesus ~ Amen.

Photo & Content Copyright © Iris Nelson

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