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A Prayer of Glad Affirmation: Why We Love Jesus

     But he [Jesus] has appeared once for all at the culmination of the ages to do away with sin by the sacrifice of himself. Just as people are destined to die once, and after that to face judgment, so Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him. Heb. 9:26-28 
     Dear Lord Jesus, there are so many compelling reasons why you are singularly worthy of being loved, praised, trusted, and served. But as I begin this day, I want to rehearse some of those many reasons out loud. For any of a number of pseudo-gods, wannabe gods, and demigods will be clamoring for my heart’s attention and affection today, all day long. Help me, my family, and my friends to love you with focused abandon, undistilled adoration and unwavering allegiance.
     Jesus, according to the Scripture, you expressly came into the world of time zones and molecules, at the “end of the ages,” at the appointed time in the history of redemption, to “do away with sin”—to take away the sins of your people, which includes my sins. The price was your life of perfect obedience, including obedience to death on the cross. Never let me think or speak of your offering glibly, mindlessly, or presumptuously; for the implications of your sacrifice are astounding, measureless and eternal.
     Of these things we can be certain: Jesus, you have exhausted the penalty of our sins. Though I’m still destined to die, I’ve already been delivered from the punishment of my sin, because of your once-and-for-all sacrifice. You became sin for us that in you we might become the righteousness of God. What wondrous love is this, indeed?
     And you’ve broken the power of sin—sin’s dominion has been destroyed in my life; it shall never again master my affections or allegiance. You’re the true King, Jesus, and your reign of grace is secure and is expanding. By your Sprit, you’ve taken up residence in my soul and you will bring the good work—the gospel work to completion. Indeed, when you “appear a second time,” you’ll rid my being, and the entire cosmos, of the very presence of sin. O, hasten that joyful and liberating Day!
     Lord Jesus, there is no other Savior like you, or but you. You’ve borne sin and you’re bringing salvation; you’ve borne our sin and you’re bringing us salvation; you’ve borne my sin and you’re bringing me salvation! Love you? Indeed! Wait for you? Like a much-loved bride longing for her much-anticipated wedding day. Even so, Lord Jesus, come! So very Amen we pray, in your matchless and merciful name.

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