But the gift is not like the trespass. For if the many died by the trespass of the one man, how much more did God’s grace and the gift that came by the grace of the one man, Jesus Christ, overflow to the many!
Romans 5:15
Judgment and condemnation entered through the sin of the one man, Adam, and with it were the effects of death and separation from God.
Likewise, the gift of God through Jesus Christ brought justification and grace to many. Paul explains that the gift of righteousness is Christ’s gift to humanity through His death and resurrection. Sin reigned in death and now grace reigns through righteousness to bring eternal life through Jesus Christ.
(v.21) Imagine the scene when Jesus died on the cross. At that moment the veil, the shroud of death over humanity, was lifted, and we now have access through our faith in Jesus into a “right” relationship with God.
I often speak with people who have broken relationships with family members or friends. Though we are not always able to restore our broken relationships, we are called to forgive. Jesus Christ offered us the ultimate gift of grace, offering us forgiveness for our sins and reconciliation with the Father. As we live our lives free of the shroud of death in our sins and broken relationships, let us always remember that our Lord stands at the door knocking; He has provided us access to restoration in our daily lives.
He offers us a new life of freedom in Him. In The Message, Peterson puts it this way: Just as one person did it wrong and got us in trouble with sin and death, another person did it right and got us out of it. But more than just getting us out of trouble, He got us into life! (Romans 5:15)
Heavenly Father,
Thank you for sending Your Son Jesus Christ who offers me the gift of freedom from my sin, healing of relationships, and forgiveness that I do not deserve. Help me remember to turn to You knowing that You paid the ultimate price of laying Your life down so I could walk in freedom.
In Jesus’ name, Amen
