“God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” 2 Corinthians 5:21
If you drive a car with some mileage, you’ve likely noticed some changes over time. The once gleaming, unmarred exterior begins to show its age—dings from distracted drivers, rust spots from salted roads, and perhaps a few scuffs from close encounters with shopping carts. The interior often tells a similar story, with crumbs in the crevices and sand from winter roads finding a home in every corner. Or maybe that's just my car. Either way, the picture is clear: what was once spotless eventually becomes worn and flawed over time.
This image of a weathered car mirrors humanity’s journey since Genesis 3, when Adam and Eve made the fateful choice to disobey God. What was created pure and spotless became marred by sin, and the effects of that original sin have been passed down through every generation. Even the sweetest, most innocent newborn carries this stain—a separation from the perfection we were designed to reflect.
There’s nothing we can do to restore ourselves to that original state. No amount of effort or sacrifice we make can undo the damage sin has caused. But God, in His infinite love, did for us what we could never do for ourselves. Jesus, the Son of God, the second person of the Trinity, came into this world spotless and without sin. Because He is God, He alone could bear the weight of our sins and offer Himself the perfect sacrifice.
And yet, the story doesn’t end there. God not only offered us restoration in Jesus Christ; He gave us His Spirit as a deposit, guaranteeing what will come. When we accept Jesus, the Holy Spirit takes up residence within us, leading and guiding us, reminding us of God’s grace, and transforming us daily. Through the Spirit’s work, we are being sanctified, prepared for that glorious day when we will stand before God face-to-face, spotless and restored—not by our efforts, but by His grace alone.
So, as we navigate the dings and dents of life, let us cling to this truth: Jesus’s spotless sacrifice has made a way for us, and the Holy Spirit continues to lead us on this restoration journey, guaranteeing the glorious future that awaits us.
Gracious Lord, thank You for the gift of Your Son and the presence of Your Spirit within us. Lead and sanctify us each day by Your grace, as we await the glorious day when we will stand before You, restored and spotless. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
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