There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. (Romans 8:1 ESV)
Forgiveness and Love
The hippies might have had it right. They seem to have coined the phrase, “I am in to that.” While hippies never endorsed an official Hippie Dictionary, being “in to something” meant more than liking it, appreciating it, and admiring it. It also implied a selfless devotion, a heart-felt dedication, and perhaps almost a worship.
That sounds a lot like love.
Insert a tiny, ‘to’ into Paul’s words, and the phrase describes loving Christ Jesus.
I am in to Jesus.
And therefore, there is no condemnation for me as I stand before His judgment throne, not only at my death, but every day.
I certainly deserve condemnation. I certainly deserve punishment. I certainly deserve a resounding, “GUILTY,” and hard gavel slam.
But because I am in to Jesus, instead I am adopted, made holy in His sight, and pronounced ‘innocent.’ With Jesus’ innocence.
Love leads to forgiveness. And forgiveness leads to love.
Take the love God grants us.