Jim Woods, Mayor of Oceanside gets it. When first approached by Torches
Across America, he proclaimed September 11th as a First Responders Day, and then
was there to send us off on our cross country ride. Now not being a biker, he
stood out among the leather and denim, tattoos, and earrings-that is just the
men, and wearing a three piece suit got a suspicious eye from many. So when I
introduced him, I advised him publicly, that most people in suits remind us of
court, and they are usually against us. On the other side of the desk against
us. It got a laugh, and Jim went with it. He loosened his tie quickly, and
opened his vest as a show of support, a politician to the end. But next year I
was greeted by the same man, this time in a Hawaiian print shirt, still no denim
or leather, but being greeted by “look Mike, no suit and tie,” I knew he got
it. At least he didn’t show up in brand new leathers like a newbie. Maybe a
man I would like to have in my corner if I ever went to court. I can just hear
him explaining my leathers to the judge...
Going to court can be a scary thing. Just walking in the courtroom you
feel guilty about something, and those being tried are really at the mercy of a
judge. One of four scenarios can play out-being proven not guilty but still
having done the crime, found guilty, but not having done the crime, innocent and
being found innocent, and finally guilty and being found guilty. Not guilty
does not have to mean innocent, just getting off when the evidence is not
enough, the judge is not convinced or a jury feels not guilty. Sadly many go
free when they are guilty, even sadder is those who are innocent, but
convicted. But sadder still is those innocent of the accusation, but found
guilty, and told “ well you got off for other things, your reputation finally
caught up with you.” And they call that justice? So just mention court to some
and they get an upset stomach, or judgment, and the tempers flare. Voices rise,
and those who are accused start boldly telling us how the Bible tells us to not
judge. But does it really say that? And why do you only hear it from those
caught in sin? Where is the rest of the Bible they misquote so well, like you
must be born again? Like Jim, overdressed, but still willing to fit in. Guilty
as charged.
Psalm 84:10a tells us “better is one day in your courts,” and the song goes
on “than thousands elsewhere.” Someday we will all go before a righteous judge,
God almighty, where we could all be found guilty of sin. All men sin and fall
short of the glory of God, but some have chosen Jesus as their wonderful
counselor, and taken His advice, and given their lives to Him. When they are
before God on judgment day, Jesus will represent them, us, and although guilty
as charged, we will be found innocent by God, and a free pass into eternal life
in heaven. Others will not be so fortunate, as they will try to argue before
God, but find Him just and right, with no argument to rescue them from hell.
They had their chance on earth, but chose other things over the things of
God-they denied Jesus, and so He denies them on that day. No parole, probation,
or hung jury-judgment is swift and harsh-hell forever. No chance to change
clothes to fit in and no excuses accepted. The truth that has set others free
will be used to condemn you. A day of judgment all Christians should be looking
forward to with great anticipation, as heaven awaits, all troubles are gone, and
no more lies or excuses will ever be heard. All coming to an end in that one
day in court. Truly I rather spend that one day in court with Jesus to
represent me than try to go it alone on earth without Him.
How wonderful is your attorney? Is he called the wonderful counselor by
the Bible, or is he a $400/ hour servant of the court? Is he court provided,
or just a friend pro bono? Only Jesus can save you on that day of judgment, He
is the only wonderful counselor, and one day in His court leads to thousands
elsewhere. He is what depends on the elsewhere you spend eternity in. So today
call ahead, ask Him to forgive you. Have your name written in the Book of Life.
We are all guilty, but only those who are in Christ will be found not guilty.
Not guilty doesn’t mean innocent, it does mean forgiven. Remember that next
time, or this time. Ask forgiveness before that awesome day when we will be
free at last-not guilty, for no facts will be there to support the accusations,
all because of Jesus. Not guilty as charged, but not innocent either.
Forgiven. Justice and judgment never looked so good. So, how’s your day
going? We all have a court date waiting for us, I can hardly wait for
mine.
love with compassion,
Mike
matthew25biker.blogspot.com