In Massachusetts we have inspection stickers on the lower right hand side of our windshields. Every year we have to pay someone twenty-nine dollars to tell us if our car is street-worthy. I don’t understand why it is that even though I know all the lights and stuff are working properly, I still feel intimidated. I feel like a little boy going to the principal’s office. Will I get spanked because a windshield wiper looks a bit tired? There is this moment of relief when the man starts to scrap off the old sticker so he can put on the new.
It reminds me of my favorite Old Testament story. It’s not Samson or Elijah. It’s found in Zachariah 3. Joshua, the high priest, has appeared before the angel of the Lord wearing a filthy garment. Satan is there to proclaim him unfit. Then the most wonderful thing occurs. The Lord exchanges Joshua’s garment with one that is spotless. Awesome. What is this story doing in the Old Testament? One would think it belonged in the middle of Romans. Joshua passes inspection with flying colors. He is heaven-worthy.
If I am intimated when my car is inspected, I can only imagine my horror when I am to be inspected by God. But wait, I read a promise somewhere in John. Ah, yes, it is 5:24. I have made Jesus my savior and according to Him I have already passed inspection. I have crossed over from death to life and don’t even have to show up for judgment.
Now I ask you. Does it get any better than this? There is no standing in the spotlight waiting for the emcee to announce my fate. There are no rolling drums to raise my anxiety level to a fever pitch. We, You and I, We Win.
Written by Roger Bothwell on July 28, 2011
Spring of Life Ministry, PO Box 124, St. Helena, CA 94574
Rogerbothwell.org