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By Mike Caton

John 8:26, “I have much to say in judgment of you. But he who sent me is trustworthy, and what I have heard from him I tell the world.”

What does Jesus have to say in judgment of us? Boy, that is a scary thought! We think of judgment as condemnation, and that is true, if we are guilty. And let’s be honest here, we are all guilty. We have all sinned and fall short of the glory of God. Jesus did not come simply to ignore those sins. It seems many think that since Jesus, the Savior, has come, that sin is no longer a big deal. God is just going to wipe them away, sweep them under the rug, or something. But sin is a big deal! It is such a big deal God himself became flesh, came to earth, and died on a cross to pay for the sins we had committed. Think about Jesus on the cross, imagine that scene, and tell me sin is no big deal!

Jesus came to speak the truth that his Father had sent, Jesus tells us what the Father wants us to know. And that is the way to be saved, the way to live the life that God wants us to live, the life that is abundant, that is real, that is full, that is blessed, that is content. Jesus said he came that they may have life, and have it to the full, John 10:10. But we have to hear and heed the words Jesus speaks on behalf of the Father. We have to be willing to accept his teaching, his life, and his will for our lives. I am not promising, and God is not promising, a life of ease with bigger houses, new cars, and fat bank accounts. He is promising us a life of contentment, of gratitude, and a life of service to others. But that is where we find the real satisfaction, the real joy in our lives. Our best life is lived in service to God and people.

Father, help me here and heed your words. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Mike Caton is the preacher at Mount Olive Church of Christ in Belhaven. He volunteers at the Ponzer Fire Department and works part time with Hyde County EMS. If you would like to receive daily devotions in your inbox, email mikecaton@centurylink.net.

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