April 6, 2018
1 John 1:8-2:2…“If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he who is faithful and just will forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” vss. 8-9
These verses from First John are a perfect synopsis of what faithful followers of Jesus believe about sin and forgiveness. It really isn’t complicated! No matter what we might believe about healthy egos and positive self-esteem, all of us are sinners. No matter what our politics or station in life everyone sins…and if we say we don’t, we’ve added lying to the list! Now there are some who are willing to admit this while doing nothing about it. They live with their sin and don’t seem to mind the burden of guilt. There are even those who don’t seem to have a conscience. But most of us carry a certain amount of guilt, and we don’t like it! It’s a horrible burden, particularly when it’s linked with shame, and we crave to be set free. John tells us that freedom from sin and guilt comes through simple confession, acknowledging the sin and throwing ourselves on the mercies of God. And because God is faithful and just, those sins are forgiven and we are cleansed from all unrighteousness. That’s why followers of Jesus show up at worship week after week. It feels so good to know that we are loved in spite of ourselves and that we get constant fresh starts from our loving God.
Thought for the Day: What sins do I most frequently confess?
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