The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul; the decrees of the Lord are sure, making wise the simple. Psalms 19:7 NRSV
Recently, I have needed to go with some folks to the Brockton District Court. If you haven't been in court for a while, and I hope you haven't, it's pretty much what you see on TV without the investigator sweeping in at the last minute to save the defendant. Each attorney offers different versions of the "truth" to the judge and jury–if there is one. It then comes down to how they interpret what they've heard. The plaintiff and defendant can't both go away happy; it's not possible. Sometimes what seems to be a clear-cut case doesn't turn out the way we'd expect because of reasons we don't foresee. However, this is our justice system, and though perhaps imperfect at times, we are blessed to have it.
The law of God, though, is perfect. It is not based on procedure or evidence; it's not a system but a deity, our Heavenly Father. We have been appointed an advocate in Jesus Christ, the very One who came to redeem us. No panel of jurors is needed (thank goodness) to hear our case and issue a decision; we go directly to our Father. With HIm, there aren't volumes of statutes, laws, and prior decisions we need to reference in pleading our case; we only need to come humbly and honestly before the throne. At times we may be the plaintiff, at others, the defendant, but regardless we will go away happy because our pleas have been heard and God, in his grace, has dispensed justice and mercy.
Our Heavenly Father, we give thanks for your perfect simple law. Your throne is always open. When we sin, we can approach you directly, with Christ our Savior beside us, and you forgive. When we seek counsel, you give us direction and guide us by the Holy Spirit. Gracious God, help us live into your perfect law. In Christ Jesus, we pray. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
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