November 25, 2023 - 1 John 1-2

Such wonderful words: “My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. He is the propitiation for our sins” (2:1:2). Think about this!

If (when?), today, I fail to obey a particular commandment, Jesus steps before the Father and says, “Don't lay that charge against George. I’ve taken care of it.”

If I become sinfully angry sometime today, Jesus steps before the Father and says, “Don’t lay that charge against George. I’ve taken care of it.”

If my thoughts, at any point today, are sinful, Jesus steps before the Father and says, “Don’t lay that charge against George. I’ve taken care of it.”

If I . . . if I . . . if I . . . when I . . . when I . . . when I . . . well, just imagine all the sins that I will commit today. And each time, each and every time, Jesus steps before the Father and says, “Don’t lay that charge against George. I’ve taken care of it.” Fill in the blanks with your own name and marvel at so great a love! This is the most wonderful news that we could ever receive. We have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ our Savior!

Lord, the breathings of desire,

The weak petition, if sincere,

Are not forbidden to aspire,

But reach to thy all-gracious ear.

Look up, my soul, with cheerful eye,

See where the great redeemer stands,

The glorious advocate on high,

With precious incense in his hands. -- Anne Steele (1780)