21 But now apart from the Law the righteousness of God has been manifested, being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets, 22 even the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all those who believe; for there is no distinction; 23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24 being justified as a gift by His grace through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus; 25 whom God displayed publicly as a propitiation in His blood through faith. This was to demonstrate His righteousness, because in the forbearance of God He passed over the sins previously committed; 26 for the demonstration, I say, of His righteousness at the present time, so that He would be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus. 27 Where then is boasting? It is excluded. By what kind of law? Of works? No, but by a law of faith. 28 For we maintain that a man is justified by faith apart from works of the Law. ~ Romans 3:21-28 (NASB)
Holy, Righteous Lord, You are a just and righteous God who cannot abide sin. Yet, You show love and mercy to Your children. You do not want anyone to die; instead You want everyone to accept Jesus and Lord and follow in His ways. Your righteousness will not allow sin to go unpunished, but You love us so much You do not want to punish us. So You sent Your Beloved Son, of the same substance as You, the Second Person of the Trinity, to take on the punishment for my sins and the sins of the whole world. All the pain and death that should be mine were taken on by Jesus. Thank You, Lord. In Jesus’ name. Amen