Psalm 97:1-2 “The LORD reigns, let the earth be glad; let the distant shores rejoice. Clouds and thick darkness surround him; righteousness and justice (judgement) are the foundation of his throne.
Heavenly Father,
Help me understand your words. A foundation is what we build on. Your foundation is “righteousness and judgment”. You are totally righteous…..it is one of your attributes. Any other righteousness is based on your scale of righteousness. We strive for your righteousness, to be in harmony with your will and your word. Judgment is harder for me to understand. That is why I’m reading “The Parables of Judgment” in hopes of understanding more clearly. I always have trouble seeing you as a judgmental God, because I see your great act of love to save the world through Jesus Christ. Why would a God who loved us enough to do that…to become human, to die….also judge people and send them to hell? I don’t understand hell at all. I’m not sure I can write much about this until I understand more. I know you are a God of love. Jesus proves that! Jesus came “full of grace and truth” (John 1:14)…from the Father…You. Grace saves me. Grace frees me from hell. Grace is the opposite of judgment in some ways. It is a judgment to allow me to go free, to be pardoned, to be redeemed. Jesus made me righteous, where I was sinful. Jesus made me clean, where I was dirty. Jesus made me new, where I was dead. Jesus found me, where I was lost. Jesus elevates me to your kingdom where I was least and last. Jesus is Truth. Jesus is the Word. Jesus is what you want me to understand. Jesus changes me. Jesus shields me. Jesus shepherds me. Jesus graces me and saves me. Positive judgment? Judged but forgiven? Judged and redeemed? Led to your throne….of righteousness…..and into your presence. Thank you! Fill me with your truth, your grace, your love. Amen.
No comments:
Post a Comment