Justice or Mercy?

“And according to the Law, one may almost say, all things are cleansed with the blood and without shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.  

“For Christ did not enter a holy place made with hands, a mere copy of the true one, but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us; nor was it that He should offer Himself often, as the high priest enters the holy place year by year with blood not his own.  Otherwise, He would have needed to suffer often since the foundation of the world; but now once the consummation of the ages He has been manifested to put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself.” Hebrews 9:22, 24-26

“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”  I John 1:9

“It is not surprising that the majority indicate it is on the basis of mercy that God forgives.  But they are WRONG!  God forgives us on the basis of His justice.  If God was to forgive us only on the basis of His mercy, the cross would not have been necessary.  It is the death of Christ on the cross that makes forgiveness by God a just act.  It is appealing to His justice that forgiveness is possible, not in an appeal to His mercy.”

For me, this question, this concept and truth was amazingly significant.  Please consider what this means for you every day since you gave your life to Christ!

Take care with love, especially His!  Your servant and friend in Christ, Darlene  

PS:  ANY PRAYER UPDATES TODAY?  I need more of you to send updates please!  For any of you who wonder if prayer is worth taking time for, just page back through previous entries and see the hand of our loving Father in action! 

NEW PRAYER REQUESTS:  Kent’s mother has Alzheimer’s and a rapidly growing cancer in her nasal passage – the doctors have started arguing over what treatment is needed right now (surgery or radiation) and the surgeon has taken his holidays – she is very fragile.  Adrian has taken a turn for the worst, has more vertebrates crushed.  The pain has grown and the pain meds are not working well.

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING:  God has found a wonderful place for Adrian to live and even though his health is not good, at least now he will be able to sleep and rest when needed!  Blacky has some good news about a work-study program in his country!  Randy, who we’ve been praying for a long time has found God’s blessings overflowing him with a new role!  That a project is developing now for me again.

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS:  Tim, my little brother, feeling stronger but needs financial help, especially with no health insurance.  Pray he secures a disability pension.   For Michael C, with his own health concerns & for his wife, Diane, as his mother is fading away with Alzheimer’s and ill health.  David still needs prayer for his health, but is doing better.  For Adrian, who is recovering from a serious illness and needs a peaceful place to live as he recovers.  Steve Barns for relief from great pain and depression. 

For a solution for Audley and Beverly (a stroke survivor who is unable to be left alone for long.  This limits Audley’s ability to travel for work).  Tim B with headaches, that their doctors will OK a new procedure for relief.  For Carlton.  Gwen (13 year old) -- headaches and attitude toward her mom. 

Deb, special friend with multiple Myeloma (please see her blog at this LINK. (http://debdarley.blogspot.com/ )  Wisdom for doctors caring for Tim, Doris, David, Poetry and Gary, Annette’s friend Sue.

ONGOING PRAYER REQUESTS:  Deborah and her son Michael, recovering from the loss of her mother to cancer and her father to suicide.  Cucuawe is recovering from the loss of his 17-year old daughter and his father-in-law to cancer.  Galdor recovering from the loss of his mother and he needs to focus on securing a new job.  Please pray for Deepak as he struggles through some challenges.  For Reg and his ministry, that the Lord would bless him in unexpected ways. 

For Roger as he considers options for a pledge of heart.  Adam who is becoming involved with a cult that is filling many unmet needs.  Scott, for strength as he struggles and grows.  For David K, that his path forward is filled with faith.  Isaias (health, strength and family safety as he continues his mission work in Philippines); God’s grace on USA & REVIVAL for His children there.  For Kevin (Godly wisdom with his son), Michael. 

PRAY FOR THE WORLD:  For those still affected by the many natural, financial and political disasters in the past year.  For the rest of the world to stay calm with regard to war, the economy and most of all for those who are believers, to pray and help others have peace during this time. 

ONGOING JOB RELATED: That Tim might find satisfying work.  Paul K who resigned from his job and is setting up a consultancy.

NOTE:  (I will be sending a separate email asking your opinion about publishing on Kindle soon.  It would be very helpful to hear from you in response, please.))

*Christ For Real by Charles Price