Read: 1 John 1:5–2:2
This is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. (v. 5)
I freely admit that my relationship with my children was, at times, conditional. I attached an “if” to the promises I made. “If you come home right after soccer practice, then I’ll take you out for dinner.” “If you get your chores done on time, I’ll give you an allowance.” My love wasn’t conditional, but what parent doesn’t make conditional promises?
God makes a conditional promise, too. But what a strange condition he attaches to it. He promises to forgive us completely and perfectly, on the one condition that we admit our need for it. That’s it! Of course it would be best if we did not sin. John urges us to try to resist sin, and rightly so. We can claim that we never sin, but every one of us knows that such a claim would be a lie. Why say such a foolish thing, considering God’s lavish promise of forgiveness?
Here is the good news: if we fall into sin, we only have to confess it. God promises to forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. God’s love for us isn’t conditional. He is ready to receive us.
God is light, John says. His light exposes, to be sure; but it also forgives, cleanses, and heals.
As you pray, confess your sin against God and others and ask for forgiveness. Thank God for providing a sure way of forgiveness through his son, Jesus.
Jerry Sittser is a professor emeritus of theology and senior fellow at Whitworth University. He specializes in the history of Christianity, Christian spirituality, and religion in American public life. As an author, he has written nine books.
