Friday, September 25, 1998
 

My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have one who speaks to the Father in our defense -- Jesus Christ the Righteous One.

1 John 2:1, New International Version

    God hates sin. Don't you? I know I do. But isn't it amazing how we'll fall back into the same old traps again and again. This is where John, the tender Shepherd that he was, hits the nail on the head. The goal is to not sin even one sin. But, knowing our struggle against the flesh, John also gives assurance to those of us trying to live faithful and pure lives. He wants us to know that when we do sin, the Sacrifice for our sins, God's Son, is also our defense attorney who proclaims us sinless by his blood! So let's draw close to Christ. Let's invite him into our hearts each morning as we begin the day. Let's trust in his power and grace to sustain us and carry us through. When we do, he will!