READ: LUKE 5:17-26; 23:32-43; EPHESIANS 2:1-10

Icy iron chains bind my hands behind me, weighing me down more and more with every step as I’m led toward the throne room. My heart pounds in my chest and sweat slides down my temple. Why did I have to be so foolish?! Why did I think it would be a good idea to steal from the King’s table? What was I thinking! The groan of the great, gold doors of the throne room opening snaps me from my thoughts, and I gulp. Up ahead is the King, full of majesty and glory. With slow, halting steps I make my way toward the foot of the throne. I barely notice the murmurs of the court as I curl into myself. I should have listened to my mother. She told me my thievery would get me killed someday.

I fall to my knees before the throne, my whole body shaking with fright at what I’m sure will be a death sentence. After everything I’ve done, I’d deserve it. Stealing isn’t even the worst crime I’ve committed. I keep my eyes on the floor. For a moment silence reigns in the room; then a gentle voice speaks. “Why are you frightened young man?” the voice asks.

“Because I’ve done wrong against the King and the people of this kingdom,” I say, my voice shaking.

Then a hand gently lifts my chin to reveal the King smiling kindly at me. He moved from his throne—he came down to be near me, a criminal. Awe washes over me and I stare, not understanding why the King of all people would be smiling at me.

“Be at peace young man,” he says kindly, “you are forgiven, and your name is cleared. Be free.” At those last two words my chains fall, broken, to the ground, and I stare in awe as tears fill my eyes.

“Why?” I rasp, and the King smiles. “Because I choose to.” • Caelin Allred

• What stuck out to you in today’s allegorical story? Jesus is King of the universe. He humbled Himself by coming to earth, fully God and fully human, and living among us. He was on a rescue mission to forgive us, knowing full well all the wrong things we do that separate us from Him. For everyone who puts their trust in Jesus, He has secured our forgiveness through dying on the cross and rising from the grave. If you want to know more about this good news, check out our “Know Jesus” Page.

Blessed is the one whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered. Psalm 32:1 (NIV)