In our Lenten series ‘Shaping Tomorrow’ we are growing in faith and understanding that what we do today, shapes tomorrow. Moreover, how we think of God today shapes how we view ourselves and the world around us. In our text for today the writer of 1 John states that he is writing, in an endearing way, so that those who are following Christ may not sin. The question begs to be answered, “what becomes of us when we do sin”? The image of God that we have most definitely influences how we answer. For example, if we see God as a Judge who waits to render a sentence or punishment for our transgressions, then we live in fear of God and we just might hide. On the other hand, what if we see God as a Spiritual Physician who makes us whole and healthy in the forgiveness of sin? Now we come willingly before God because we trust that God is our healer! The writer of John answers the question this way, “But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus the Christ, and he is the atoning sacrifice for our not only our sins but also the sins of the whole world!” Think about it. God longs to restore us to wholeness and right relationship as intended from the beginning. God is in the life giving business, not the punishment and condemnation business. When we can see God this way, in and through Jesus, we can come to our Heavenly Father with all things, trusting in God’s mercy, grace, and love. Now that, dear friends, shapes today and tomorrow.
