The Ten Commandments: Devotions From Time of GraceНамуна

The Fifth Commandment: Christ Jesus Sets Murderers Free  

The list is long for sins prohibited by the Fifth Commandment. They include murder, physically harming another person or recklessly endangering another’s life, abortion, needlessly ending a person’s life for whom death is near (euthanasia), and suicide. Sins against the Fifth Commandment even include treating our bodies in harmful, unhealthy ways.

What a wicked world! Stained with the blood of abortion, domestic abuse, and gang fights. Terrorized by our hatred, bigotry, ethnic cleansing, and racism. Hurt by our angry words. But Jesus came. Here. He offers his mercy to a world of murderers and sinners.

“Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst” (1 Timothy 1:15).

Thirty years ago the Brazilian government turned a high security prison over to two Christians to run it on Christian principles: the love of God and love for each other. Chuck Colson, a well-known advocate of prison ministry, visited the prison and was taken on a tour. His guide escorted him to a notorious prison cell once used for torture. Inside was a crucifix, beautifully carved by the inmates, depicting the prisoner Jesus, hanging on a cross. 

“He’s doing time for the rest of us,” the guide said softly (Max Lucado, In the Grip of Grace). Jesus sets murderers free. Jesus saves us even from sins against the Fifth Commandment. Even the worst. Now live!