Who Does He Think He Is?!

Then those who were at table with him began to say among themselves, “Who is this, who even forgives sins?” -Luke 7:49 

The truth of Christ is utterly confounding to so many. It just doesn't make any sense that God himself would come among the brokenness of this earth and live in the muck and mire. Then in perfection he would take on punishment his life would never warrant but ours would. Then he would claim us, those without much to offer, to be his children. 

This is exactly what Jesus came to accomplish; along the way, he healed the sick and forgave the sinners. The religious leaders of the day questioned it, for he was acting like God, forgiving sins. 

That is the glorious reality we are supposed to catch in this dinner exchange in Luke 7. Jesus is God, with the authority to forgive sins, to heal the sick, mend the lame, and make whole again what sin corrupted. 

Today, this is whom you follow. The sin-forgiving, self-sacrificing Creator and Savior of the world chose you, died in your place, and gives you real, worthwhile life in him. Rest in his authority and care as you go through the day. Know that he is in control. Know that he has forgiven you by his cross. Know that he has a purpose and path for you. Know that he is for you. 

Live fully in this awareness of the One who can forgive sins, Jesus.

Until It Is Accomplished

“The fierce anger of the LORD will not turn back until he has executed and accomplished the intentions of his mind. In the latter days you will understand this.” -Jeremiah 30:24

Here we have some grave language directed toward those not obedient to God in Israel. And it immediately precedes rejoicing and dancing, merrymaking because of the love of God for his people.

This is a preview of the Gospel for us. God's wrath must be satisfied. We have earned this fierce anger by disregarding God, his law and his authority. And Jesus, God himself, comes and meets that wrath on our behalf. He substitutes himself in our place, taking on the burden we could never bear. It was a full and complete satisfaction. His anger was executed, accomplishing the intentions of his mind.

Jesus took it on, for you. Mourning has turned to joy and we, now in the latter days, understand this. Let these words remind you of the accomplishment of the cross of Christ. That there he stood in your spot, fully extinguishing every ounce of wrath stored up for your sin—past, present and future.

Today, you stand justified in Christ. You are made holy in him, beyond the anger of God. His joy is yours for the taking. Grab hold!