Justification is such a beautiful gift. Through Christ’s death on the cross, we have been given a closeness to God that completely erases our sin. It truly is an *ideal* father/child relationship that Jesus granted us. Because of this closeness and hope that we have in eternity, we are able to face troubles of this world with peace and keeping joy in our hearts. Without trials, we would never develop perseverance that leads to the confident hope we have in God’s promises to us. Think about it, if God sent Christ to die for you while you were still a sinner, completely unworthy, keeping God at arms’ length, how much more does He care for you now that you’ve opened your heart to receive Him?
We clearly see the contrast between sin entering the world (Adam) and the later gift of abundant grace (Jesus Christ). Through a single act of following his wife’s rebellion, Adam took on responsibility for all humanity and death entered the world. In contrast, through one giant act of self-sacrifice, Jesus brought the opportunity for forgiveness and reconciliation to all of mankind. It is written, the penalty for sin is death, but when we believe in our Lord, we accept Christ as our substitute and that debt has been paid in full.
People often question “What if Adam had never sinned?” or “Why are we punished for what happened in Eden?” But, let’s think about it for a minute. If Adam had not sinned, he would have gone on to live in Eden – sure, that sounds great. But, because of the fallen world and Christ’s redeeming act of love, we are granted eternity in Heaven! We have received heir-ship in the family of our Creator. What great majesty we have to look forward to due to the redeeming act of Jesus. Fear not, spiritual family – we may live in a fallen world today, but our eternity is held in the almighty hands of the King of Kings.