The Unlikely Union of Glory and Grace
When we stand before God, our natural expectation is not one of favor or blessing. Instead, we anticipate rebuke or penalty, given His majesty and sovereignty. Yet, because of Christ’s sacrifice on the cross, we can experience the unexpected fusion of glory and grace.
A God of Majesty and Mercy
Isaiah 53:5 reminds us that “He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our guilt and iniquities; the chastisement [needful to obtain] peace and well-being for us was upon Him, and with the stripes [that wounded] Him we are healed and made whole.” This profound truth reveals a God who is not only just but also merciful.
The Power of Perfect Plea
Poet Charitie Lees Smith Bancroft eloquently captures the essence of this paradox in her poem:
“Before the throne of God above
I have a strong and perfect plea,
A great high Priest whose Name is Love,
Who ever lives and pleads for me.”
The Unwavering Advocate
In this poem, we find comfort in the knowledge that our names are etched on Christ’s hands and written on His heart. He stands before God, advocating on our behalf, ensuring that no voice can bid us to depart. When Satan tempts us with despair, we need only look upward to see Christ, who has made an end of all our sin.
The Risen Lamb, Our Righteousness
Because the sinless Savior died, our sinful souls are counted free. God, the just, is satisfied to look upon Christ and pardon us. We behold Him as the risen Lamb, our perfect spotless righteousness, the great unchangeable I AM, the King of glory and of grace.
Embracing the Incongruity
In Christ, we find the ultimate incongruity of both glory and grace. We can experience the fullness of God’s majesty while simultaneously receiving His boundless mercy. This union is not only unexpected but also life-transforming.
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