As a kid, not many things made me feel like a superhero more than rescuing baby animals that had fallen into our deep window well.
Often, I would be playing in the basement when suddenly I would see a small bird or chipmunk repeatedly trying, unsuccessfully, to jump out of the window well.
My initial strategy to rescue it was usually to grab a broom and then stick it down into the well. Then, I’d start directing the animal, “Climb up!”
This approach rarely worked. Often the animal would be too afraid and wouldn’t let me save it. Other times, it would be too worn out from trying to save itself to climb up the stick.
So usually, I’d just leave the broom in the well and walk away, hoping the animal would eventually climb out on its own.
This is precisely not how Jesus rescues us.
When Jesus saw us stuck in a pit of sin and suffering—worn out and discouraged from trying unsuccessfully to save ourselves time and time again—he didn’t merely throw down a broomstick from heaven and say, “Climb!”
Rather, it’s as if Jesus came down into the dark and grimy pit with us, slid his arms beneath us, and said, “Collapse. Let me carry you.”
I love Isaiah 40:11: “He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart…” (See also Luke 15:4–7)
This is the beauty of the gospel: You don’t climb up to salvation; you collapse into it. You give up on your tireless efforts to save yourself and let Jesus carry you. (cf. Matthew 11:28)
I had the privilege this past Sunday of preaching on the hope of redemption, which all begins with being rescued by Jesus.
Watch the sermon HERE. You can also listen on Apple Podcasts or SoundCloud.
I pray God blesses you through his Word!
~Blake
Blake Glosson (MDiv, Reformed Theological Seminary) is an associate pastor at Chapelstreet Church in Geneva, Illinois. He has been published and/or republished or referred by:
- The Gospel Coalition
- Life Bible
- Crosswalk
- Eternal Perspective Ministries (Randy Alcorn)
- Challies.com/Tim Challies (here, here, and here)
- Ann Voskamp
- DashHouse (Darryl Dash)
- Moody Radio (here, here, and here)
- The JOY FM (here and here)
- ChurchLeaders.com
- Monergism.com
- The Aquila Report (here, here, here, and here)
Previously, Blake served as the director of young adults at New Covenant Bible Church in St. Charles, Illinois.
Watch or listen to more of Blake’s recent sermons here.