March 10 - The Perfect Intercession

Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us. — Romans 8:34 (KJV)

Jesus Christ is ever before the throne of grace, ministering on behalf of humanity. As the great High Priest of the heavenly sanctuary, He presents the merits of His sacrifice, an offering once for all, yet continuously effectual for the forgiveness of sins. The earthly symbols of atonement, once performed daily and yearly in the temple, have found their fulfillment in Him. The necessity of a continual mediator remains, for sin has not ceased. Christ stands in the presence of the Father, offering His own blood, as of a lamb slain from the foundation of the world.

Our Mediator and the Holy Spirit are actively engaged in the work of salvation. Christ, by the virtue of His atoning sacrifice, pleads for us before the Father, presenting the evidence of His blood. The Spirit, working within, leads us to repentance, moves our hearts to prayer, and inspires praise and gratitude.

Every prayer, every song of worship, every humble confession rises from the hearts of true believers to the sanctuary above. Yet, passing through human imperfection, they are tainted and impure. Without purification by the sacrifice of Christ, they could never be acceptable before the throne of God. Only through His merits, our petitions become fragrant and pleasing. As our Intercessor, He mingles our prayers with His own righteousness, presenting them as a perfect offering before the Father.

All acts of obedience, repentance, and thanksgiving must be placed upon the refining fire of Christ’s righteousness. It is His merits alone that impart value to our worship. The sweet fragrance of His perfect obedience and atonement rises as a cloud before the mercy seat, making our offerings acceptable. Through Him, grace is bestowed, and divine favor is returned in answer to the prayers of His people.

Oh, that all may understand the necessity of Christ’s intercession! May every heart recognize that our righteousness is as filthy rags (Isaiah 64:6), and only through Him can we be presented spotless before the throne of grace. Let us cling to the One who ever lives to make intercession for us, our Savior and King, our Advocate and High Priest.