I was studying the Bible with a Chinese friend. We were looking at the word “righteousness” and one of the Bible verses was “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” (John 1:29).
Jesus is the Lamb of God, whose innocent blood was shed on the cross as the perfect sacrifice for us. His righteousness becomes ours in baptism, and remains ours by faith forever.
My friend’s face lit up, and with big, bright eyes he grabbed his pen and starting drawing for me. Chinese characters took shape on the paper. Two of them, with one on top of the other.
He pointed to the bottom one and said that it means “me.” He pointed to the top one and informed me that it means “lamb.” Then he announced, “This is the ancient Chinese word for righteousness.”
Lamb over me. Right with God because of Jesus.
PRAYER: Dear Jesus, thank you for being the perfect sacrifice for my sins, and following your Father’s plan to save sinners. I know that I am righteous because of you! Amen.
FURTHER MEDITATION: Marv and Marbeth Rosenthal wrote this Christian version of “Mary Had a Little Lamb” (adapted; used with permission).
Mary had the little Lamb, who lived before His birth;
Self-existent Son of God, from Heaven He came to Earth. (Micah 5:2)
Mary had the little Lamb; see Him in yonder stall—
Virgin-born Son of God, to save us from the Fall. (Isaiah 7:14)
Mary had the little Lamb, obedient Son of God;
Everywhere the Father led, His feet were sure to trod. (John 6:38)
Mary had the little Lamb, crucified on the tree
The rejected Son of God, He died to set us free. (1 Peter 1:18)
Mary had the little Lamb—men placed Him in the grave,
Thinking they were done with Him; to death He was no slave! (Matthew 28:6)
Mary had the little Lamb, ascended now is He;
All work on Earth is ended, our Advocate to be. (Hebrews 4:14-16)
Mary had the little Lamb—mystery to behold!
From the Lamb of Calvary, a Lion will unfold. (Revelation 5:5,6)
When the Day Star comes again, of this be very sure:
It won’t be Lamb-like silence, but with the Lion’s roar. (Psalm 2:12; Revelation 19:11-16)