John the Baptist testified to Jesus being God's chosen one, the Messiah. When John saw Jesus coming toward him, he said, "Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!" John's words alluded to Jesus, who would die on the cross for our sins.

Jesus' death on the cross revealed the worst of humanity's sin and darkness. Jesus was an innocent man, God's own son, who was betrayed and given into the hands of those who would put him to death. Even on the cross, Jesus said, "Father forgive them" (Lk 23:34). Jesus willingly sacrificed himself to bring God's grace and forgiveness to this dark world.

Jesus' forgiveness can heal us of all our sin and shame. We can know that we are accepted by God as we are. We are not defined by our worst mistake, but by God's grace. Unless we experience God's forgiveness, we cannot be truly free. Once we receive God's forgiveness for ourselves, we can also forgive others.


Application: Lord, thank you for Jesus who came as the lamb of God for the sin of the world. May I find healing through your life of sacrificial love and forgiveness.
One Word: Look to Jesus