He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree; so that, having died to sins, we might live for righteousness. 1 Peter 2:24a

 
 
Have you noticed that in a typical biography, the death of the biographee usually occupies a very small fraction of the entire narrative? It’s because such a bio usually celebrates the LIFE of the biographee and can only devote some space to mourn the subject’s death. Yet the Gospels devote a disproportionately huge chunk of Christ’s bio to His DEATH. Why? It’s because the sacrificial death of Christ is absolutely pivotal to the Christian faith.
 
Now, our attitude to the cross is of paramount importance. In fact, our victory in life and in eternity depends on our attitude to Christ’s death. Contrary to what uninformed people think, believers can and should celebrate the death of Jesus Christ at Calvary. It’s wrong to think we should mourn the excruciating execution of our Redeemer. When we gather for the Lord’s Supper, it’s NOT to grieve for our Lord. That’s why He specifically instructed the daughters of Zion that witnessed His crucifixion not to mourn for Him but for themselves and their children (Luke 23:28). Look, Jesus does not want or need our sympathy!
 
Rather He deserves our gratitude. He is worthy of our praise and adoration. As we frequently remember His finished work on the Cross, we must proclaim and celebrate His death until He returns (see 1 Corinthians 11:26). Oh the joy of living a guilt free life! How thankful we ought to be knowing that Jesus personally carried all our sins, iniquities and guilt at Golgotha. There is absolutely no need to hang our heads in shame. We can now approach the Father with full assurance and confidence (Hebrews 4:16).
 
God has no issues with you. There is no judgment hanging over your head. You’re guiltless and blameless in His sight. Jesus bore ALL your sins and transgressions in His own body on the Cross. The devil has nothing on you. Such is the mindset of an effective witness for Christ. Such is our Gospel message: entrusting your life to Jesus is to receive total pardon from known and unknown sin and guilt.
 
That is why it doesn’t make sense for Christians to be judgmental. As much as the Lord carried all your sins on the Cross, so did He for your brothers and sisters in Christ. You and I have no business trying to retain other people’s mistakes and sins! Why should we carry in our hearts the sins Jesus carried on the Cross for everyone? If you and I are not careful, we will hold on to our and others’ sins which Jesus has already forgiven! God forbid! That is why there is a serious lack of forgiveness in the Church and in families today. Let’s change all that in Jesus’ mighty name.
 
Pastor Josh