The term “sin” in Hebrew means “missing the mark,” not quite hitting the bullseye on the target of life in its fullest, life in the goodness of God’s creation and intimacy. In one way or another, we are all after not sinning, wanting to hit the mark of life as it’s meant to be and can be. The irony is, the way we continuously hit the mark is through suffering like Jesus. As Peter put it, “Since therefore Christ suffered in the flesh for us—the Righteous One for the unrighteous ones so that he might bring us to God—arm yourself with the same way of thinking, for whoever has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin.” Suffering like Jesus—submitting, serving, and sacrificing—for the sake of bringing others into right relationship with the Father, keeps us on target. Let’s pray together for the right aim.
Father, thank you for sending your Son to show us how to live. Jesus, thank you for your life of submission, service, and sacrafice that is the power that allows us to live a full and forever life. Let us not see such suffering as a indication that we are missing the mark, but rather than are aim is true. Encourage us and empower us in your Spirit with the mind of Jesus so that in everything You may be glorified.
Becasue of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrction we pray. Amen.