21 Days of Prayer and Fasting

Day 19

This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all, which is the testimony given at the proper time. —1 Timothy 2:3-6

It’s so interesting that Paul writes many of his epistles from prison. Paul needed an advocate on many fronts. When people are in court they need a lawyer, but Paul recognizes that his main priority is not the court of man, but rather the court of heaven. He needs an advocate, he recognizes that Jesus is his only hope.

We face the same circumstance that Paul did.. We need Jesus to be our advocate too. Jesus, and His infinite love literally acts as the family lawyer. At our church, we are intentional to get involved with the legal system particularly on behalf of orphans.

In the process we have learned that the court will oftentimes assign an advocate on behalf of children in need. These advocates look for the best needs of the child.

Jesus Christ does the exact same thing for us, His children. The role of the advocate is to make the best appeal before the judge on behalf of the children. Jesus literally is making that same appeal before God the Father for you and for me.

He goes much further than any earthly lawyer.. Jesus is completely honest, He looks at the judge and says, “my client is totally guilty, but I am his advocate and I pay the penalty with my own blood.”
What an advocate! What a mediator! How extravagant!

Jesus knew His purpose was to redeem the world and to give His life as a ransom for many. His death gave us life and hope!

So, let us follow Jesus’s example. Let us be the voice for those who cannot speak for themselves. Let us show mercy and compassion upon widows and orphans. Let us live like Jesus and be a friend to the lost and the lonely. If someone is hungry, let us feed them. If someone is naked, let us clothe them. If someone is homeless, let us give them some place to sleep.

Ultimately, let us follow Jesus’ amazing example of sacrificial love. May we live a life that fulfills God’s ultimate purpose for his own family. To love God and to love people. Christ’s example is our firm foundation.

NOTES

How will you demonstrate Christ’s love to everyone we meet today?

Who has stood in the gap for you?

How have you honored this person?

Who can you love as an advocate today?