Sin and its consequences
I’ve watched the cruel consequences of sin strike the lives of people I know. Sin never affects only one person. As far as I can tell, even for one sin, many people have to “pay up”; there is a cost for more people than just the one who sinned. As disciples of Christ, we are forgiven for our sins that would otherwise bring spiritual death to us. What a wonderful gift paid for by the blood of Jesus. But we live in a world filled with sin and riddled with the earthly consequences of sin. Often, our own sins garner heartbreaking consequences during our earthly lives.
This week I read the story of Jesus’ reaction to the woman caught in adultery. (John 8:1-11) Jesus did not argue with what the Law said, which was that the woman who sinned should be stoned. He did not defend the woman. With a clever response, Jesus saved the woman from the earthly consequences of the sin: death by stoning. When she stood before Him, rid of all her accusers, Jesus told her to “go, and from now on sin no more.” (ESV) Even though her life was spared, I imagine this woman still had consequences for her sin, once she returned home. I think we would all hope that this woman truly repented and found eternal forgiveness in Jesus, returning home to a new life, both earthly and spiritual.
Thaipusam
Today is Thaipusam. On this day, Hindus give honor to Lord Muragan (various spellings), their god of war. For the thousands of devotees who live on our island, today involves a colorful, chaotic procession in the streets, as two chariots (a seven-ton silver chariot pulled by two bulls and a smaller golden chariot pulled by devotees) each make their journey from one temple to another. In this giant parade of chanting, drumbeats, coconut smashing, and music, many participants will offer flowers and pots of milk as offerings of gratitude to Lord Muragan for answered prayers. Some devotees will pierce their cheeks and tongues with skewers and their backs with metal hooks. To endure this act, they work themselves into a trance with drums and chanting.
Thaipusam is regarded as an important religious holiday by Hindus and as a unique cultural event by tourists. I can’t help thinking, however, that as I sit in my quiet home just a few miles from the frenetic celebrations, some of those people are looking for forgiveness, for relief from their sins. Sadly, no amount of spikes through the skin will give them the lasting relief they are looking for.
The consequences of sin are earthly and spiritual. Our friends and acquaintances experience grief and sadness because of sins committed. We ourselves, though forgiven by Jesus, often endure the consequences of our own sins. The woman caught in adultery in John 8 almost lost her life because of sin. And today, I think of my Hindu acquaintances who seek the favor of a non-existent god.
Shine Jesus Shine!
This morning I read in John 8 that Jesus is the light of the world. Oh Jesus, shine in our hearts and lives so that we look to You instead of to sin. Light of the world, shine in the hearts of Hindus today.
Thank you for this! The pictures vividly remind us of the lengths people will go, hoping for forgiveness and relief from sin. Praying that the people dwelling in darkness will see and follow His light.
Thank you for you comment, Susan! Each year I am amazed, like you said, at the lengths people will go for relief. Grabbing your hand across the blogosphere to pray with you for precious people like the ones pictured here!