Working on it . . .

Dear Friends, 

Saints are nothing but sinners who keep trying. Of course, to paraphrase John, it is also fitting to say,

I write these things to you so that you do not sin. But to remind you that if anyone does sin, we all have an advocate who stands before the Father — Jesus Christ, the Righteous One.  He Himself is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not for ours alone, but also for the sins of the entire world (1 John 2:1-2).

No need to go any further than that! One sacrifice is enough. Christ suffered and thereby earned that right, not just for you and me, but for the entire world. Think of it! What a sacrifice. What a Savior. 

None of us is worthy; however, all are included in that promise. Every Christian, every Muslim, every Hindu, Buddhist, agnostic or self-professed atheist — all, there are no exceptions. All are included, "But why?" some would ask. The simple answer is that all are sinners in need of a Savior.

Ask any psychologist, pastor or psychiatrist, and they will tell you that the average Joe carries around a heavy load of guilt that nags at them, day and night, particularly with they are alone. Why is that? Because, to be blunt, they are guilty. They have sinned. You have sinned. Everyone has sinned. However, none of us has to bear the load of sin.

Thomas Dewar once remarked that:

“An honest confession is good for the soul, but bad for the reputation”

Unfortunately, how true that is many times; however, I would rather have a soul that has been cleansed, than a reputation that hides how rotten I really am without Christ. Therefore, I can joyfully sing,

You may think you've gone too far.
You may think there is no power
That can wash away your deepest sin.
There is hope for you my friend.
Jesus died and rose again.
So that you could know the joy of sins forgiven.

Friend, good news doesn't get any better than that. No more doubts. No more worries. No guilt. In Christ those things are a thing of the past, as far as God is concerned. The rest is up to you and me.

The monk, Thomas Merton, wrote a book called, "Practicing the presence of God" — which was nothing more than an autobiography to testify to the healing power of God presence. That cleansing presence is avail for all. Unfortunately, many— including "born again Christians," do not advantage themselves of that cleansing power; preferring instead to go it alone and struggle against all odds to better themselves. A sincere struggle is no substitute for the Spirit of God— only that will liberate you and cleanse your soul.

Take care-- JimR_/