A father and son were riding along in their car when a bee flew into the car. The son was petrified because he had an allergy that a bee sting could prove deadly. The father screeched to a stop, caught the bee in his hand and allowed it to sting him, and then let it go. But seeing the bee still flying in the car, the boy was still fearful until the father said, “Son, don’t worry, the bee cannot harm you now–I took the sting.” Years ago, God made a covenant with ancient Israel. Under its terms, God promised to give them a physical home and supply all their needs. In Exodus 33 we find their obligation. God said, “You must not worship the gods of these nations or . . . imitate their evil practices.” God kept His word and they entered the Promised Land. But the nation failed to keep its promise and was evicted from the land. Years later, Christ came and established a New Covenant. Under it, God offers to forgive our sins and grant us access to God based on His Son’s sacrificial death. God does so because His Son absorbed the sting of God’s wrath when Christ died. When we by faith accept Him as our Savior, God forgives us. We become His followers eager to obey and do His will.
Dr. Melvin E. Banks, Sr.
Dr. Melvin E. Banks, Sr. is the founder and chairman of UMI (Urban Ministries, Inc.). Under his direction, UMI has grown to be a leading publisher of Christian education resources for churches in the African American community. Read More
