Achan replied, "It is true! I have sinned against the Lord, the God of Israel." Joshua 7:20a
Achan made a stupid choice. He allowed his greed to take control, and the entire community was defiled. The Lord withdrew Himself, and the tiny town of Ai routed the Israelites. Thirty-six men lost their lives due to the actions of one.
Have you ever felt like the weight of the entire world is on your shoulders? I can barely imagine how awful it must have been to have your sin revealed by God Himself. The terror Achan must have felt as the lots were cast selecting first his clan - his family - then himself. He knew what he had done. He could no longer hide.
Have you ever felt like Achan? Have you ever felt so ashamed that you truly believed every horrible thing in the world is your fault?
I have.
It isn't deserved. The entire world hasn't been defiled by my choices. My sin does not stand alone. Every man has fallen short of God's glory, so why do I try to carry the weight? The truth is - carrying the weight of the world was left to one man, and my attempts to carry the burden for the sins of others only reveals my arrogance.
Jesus died for Achan. Jesus died for me. He paid the price, so I could live. He established a covenant of life eternal.
Isn't it time I start living it?
Lord, forgive my pride. Forgive me for trying to carry crosses that are not my own. Only Jesus can carry them. Help me to receive the wonderful gift of Your grace. Help me to put down the weight of my sin. Help me to discover that amazing joy that come from You alone.