What if I sin?

My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin. And if anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. (1 John 2:1)

A woman, caught in the act of adultery, is brought to Jesus for judgment. She’s as guilty as sin. In the eyes of the law, she is condemned to die.

But with wisdom that silences her accusers, Jesus saves the woman’s life. “I don’t condemn you,” said Jesus. “Go now and leave your life of sin.”

This was not a threat, but a declaration of freedom. “Leave your prison of sin.”

When you sin you will have many accusers. Your conscience will accuse you. The law will accuse you. The judge and jury will accuse you. But Jesus will never accuse you.

Instead, he speaks in your defense. “Charge this sin to my account, and let the accused go free.”

And God the Judge announces in a voice that will not be overruled, “Case dismissed!”

Such good news is hard to believe. “But your honor, you don’t know what I’ve done.”

And the court of heaven replies, “You don’t know what Christ has done. He who knew no sin became sin so that you who were never righteous might become righteous with Christ’s righteousness.”

This is what grace does. Grace breaks the bonds of sin and removes the yoke of guilt. Grace lifts us from the clay and sets us on the rock.

Grace draws our gaze heavenward and gives us wings to fly.

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