It Is FinishedSample

“Redemption”

In the 2012 playoffs, the Yankees went down in flames, and they did it in a way that no one expected: the Bronx Bombers couldn’t hit! Long known for using their high-priced “murderers row” offense to make up for shaking starting pitching, the 2012 Yankees lost close, low-scoring games because they couldn’t score any runs. Alex Rodriguez took most of the blame because of his overwhelming contract.

Yankees fans, used to cheering the long ball, got frustrated. For one game, a fan took the time to paint a giant sign saying “A-Rod: Redeem Thyself” and bring it to Yankee Stadium. How do you think Rodriguez felt, looking up into the stands and seeing that sign? I know how I would feel. I’d want to jump over the wall, clamber up to that fan’s row, and scream in his face, “Look, I’m trying to get hits! Don’t you think I’d be playing better if it were up to me? Don’t you think I’d redeem myself if I could?”

Self-redemption is every human being’s fondest hope, but it’s also our impossible dream. In sports, people always talk about the disaster that can come from trying to make up for failures on the next play. The assertion is simple: we can’t redeem ourselves.

Humans refuse to believe that we are beyond helping ourselves. In fact, we often protest that God only helps those who do help themselves. We clearly wish that we could atone for the mistakes of the past, and say, “Thanks but no thanks” to the offered atoning death of Another. We’re uncomfortable owing someone so much.

We only acknowledge our need for a savior when the idol of self-salvation is unceremoniously ripped from our grasp. A few days after the “Redeem Thyself” sign appeared at Yankee Stadium, the Detroit Tigers’ Justin Verlander annihilated the Yankees with a three-hit shutout. This loss served as the hammer of God, finally convincing the Yankees and their fans that a savior from within is not enough.

Today, let us celebrate the good news that we have a Redeemer, and He is not us.