If I were to ask you what’s the worst thing you have ever done, what comes to mind first? Does your worst thing live in the light of day or is it hidden deep in the shadows?

My friend did not get to hide from his worst thing. His worst thing was public, exposed, and available for the world to see. One fateful night, robbed of rational thought, confusion, and desperation set in. There was something attacking his brain. Reality was blurred and chaos took over. This hero husband, dad, co-worker, friend; this life took a drastic turn, forever altering the future as we all knew it.

Sitting in the courtroom, his worst thing was now the sole topic of conversation. They played the interview video from the fateful day that we all wished had never happened. These strange words came from a familiar voice. My brain was scrambling to rectify the words, the voice, and the man. We had just heard his worst thing confession. Tears poured down the cheeks of those who knew and loved this man and his family.

After the video, the judge dismissed court for the day. The jury was excused and people began exiting the courtroom.  Defense and prosecution tables were standing with the backs to the gallery. My friend turned around to see the tear stained faces of his supporters. Next, we wiped away tears, and shared hugs. We knew his worst thing, and we still loved him.

This memory is forever etched in my mind.  I knew I was seeing a divine moment play out here on earth. I was aware of the sanctity of what I was witnessing. It was a small glimpse of our future heavenly judgment day.  Satan versus Jesus.  The day we will have to give an account of our worst thing. Accusatory Satan bringing up every infraction ever committed, every misdeed, every fleeting thought, and harsh word. Instead of our Savior’s gavel slamming down in judgment, us sinners covered by Jesus, will be enveloped in a hug. Our slate washed clean and Heaven’s pearly gates open wide.

This powerful memory will never be forgotten. It is the most intense and real illustration of what Jesus did for us all. He took our place at the defense table. Jesus took our punishment.

Mamas, Jesus is waiting for us to turn around, face our gallery of supporters, see His tears, and run to the security of His outstretched arms. Our worst thing doesn’t define us; it saves us.

Are you ready to accept your hug?

SIDENOTE: Mamas, if you want more information about Jesus, click on the ‘Need a Best Friend’ page.