Do You Need an Advocate?

Click here: 1 John 2:1-2  

REFLECTION

by Mary Alice McGinnis

Have you ever been in a courtroom? Just the thought of standing before a judge sends a shiver up my spine. The courtroom brings together the accused and accusers. It doesn’t feel safe.  It’s uncomfortable. It’s unnerving. 

I have had to appear in court. I was so frightened, not knowing what to expect. What was worse, the attorney I had been working with was ill and was unable to attend. His partner called me a few days before the court appearance to tell me he would be defending me. He told me to wait for him in the waiting area outside the courtroom. I inquired, “But how will I know you?” He said, “Trust me, you will know me. I will be the best dressed fat man.”  

When the court date arrived, I waited anxiously in the waiting room. Suddenly the door to the stairway opened. Strutting through the doorway was a tall, heavy-set man, with a tidy suit, thin back tie and a white shirt. He was larger than life. He confidently marched up to me, shook my hand, and said, “I am your attorney. I will be representing you today. And you can be sure; I will get this matter settled.”  

I exhaled slowly. I smiled a little, thinking, “Wow, I have THIS man as my advocate!” 

Friends, we all have done wrong things. In the heavenly courtroom, the evidence against us has all been exposed. There is nowhere to to hide; nowhere to turn. We are all guilty.  

Jesus, steps in to plead our case. He is not just any advocate, but the Son of God. The Righteous One! He has the credentials to stand before the Father in this court. He is the Righteous One! We have THIS man – this Son of God – who has conquered death. He who created life, is truly larger than life.  

Unlike an earthly defense attorney, our Advocate, Jesus, does not try to convince the court that we are innocent of our crimes. No, He declares, “This one, Your Honor, is guilty as charged.” Our hearts sink. 

But then He speaks words that transform the entire scene: “I have taken their punishment. I have served their sentence. I have made full payment for all their wrongs.”  

In that moment, the heavy weight of guilt and fear lifts, replaced by a flood of unexpected relief and gratitude. The accused, standing helpless, realizes that this Advocate has not just argued their case—He has personally borne the cost of their freedom.

Unlike any ordinary defense, this is a sacrifice no earthly attorney could make. It is a gift beyond comprehension, offered by the One who gave everything so that we could be declared free. 

The heavenly gavel strikes heavy as the Father calls out, “Not guilty.” 

A wave of relief washes over you as you realize the verdict has changed your life forever. 

Prayer – Thank You Heavenly Father for sending Jesus to live and die for me. Jesus, thank You for standing beside me when guilt and shame come to accuse me. Thank You that You have paid the price! You have conquered the enemy! Help me to pour out my life in gratitude to You.