For nearly seventy years, Franz Joseph ruled the powerful Austro-Hungarian Empire. He was feared, honored, and greatly respected. But in the end, like all men, he died.
When his funeral procession arrived at the doors of the church in Vienna, they were closed. When they knocked on the door a voice from inside called out, “Who is there?” The leader of the funeral party answered, “His most serene majesty, the Emperor Franz Joseph.” From inside the church the answer came, “I know him not. Who is there?” The next reply was, “The Emperor of Austria and Apostolic King of Hungary.” Again the words came, “I know him not. Who is there?” This time the answer was different. “A sinful man.” And the door opened.
When the enemies of Jesus wanted to condemn Him, they referred to Him as “a friend of publicans and sinners” (Matthew 11:19). Instead of an insult, that was actually a wonderful description of the life and ministry of Jesus. Are you attempting to reach God by your own power, might and good works? If so, Heavens doors are closed. It is time to lay down self-righteousness and agree with God that you are like the rest of us – a sinner in need of God’s grace.
Today’s Truth: Jesus came to be the Saviour, not for the good and lovely, but for the sinful and defiled – like you and me.
When his funeral procession arrived at the doors of the church in Vienna, they were closed. When they knocked on the door a voice from inside called out, “Who is there?” The leader of the funeral party answered, “His most serene majesty, the Emperor Franz Joseph.” From inside the church the answer came, “I know him not. Who is there?” The next reply was, “The Emperor of Austria and Apostolic King of Hungary.” Again the words came, “I know him not. Who is there?” This time the answer was different. “A sinful man.” And the door opened.
When the enemies of Jesus wanted to condemn Him, they referred to Him as “a friend of publicans and sinners” (Matthew 11:19). Instead of an insult, that was actually a wonderful description of the life and ministry of Jesus. Are you attempting to reach God by your own power, might and good works? If so, Heavens doors are closed. It is time to lay down self-righteousness and agree with God that you are like the rest of us – a sinner in need of God’s grace.
Today’s Truth: Jesus came to be the Saviour, not for the good and lovely, but for the sinful and defiled – like you and me.
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