You forgave the iniquity of Your people; You covered all their sin. Psalm 85:2
According to CNN, the former president of South Korea, 62-year-old Roh Moo-Hyun has committed suicide.
Having left a note for his family, Roh jumped to his death on a hill behind his house. He subsequently died at a local hospital of head injuries.
As usually happens in these situations, a great deal of speculation is taking place as to why a once-powerful leader, a respected and beloved man, would end his life in such a tragic way.
Some have said Roh had been saddened by a bribery scandal, which had tarnished his reputation. According to reports, Roh and his family had received $6 million in bribes from a businessman. Roh maintained he hadn't found out about the money until after leaving office.
Other observers have come up with other suggestions -- suggestions that are moot.
The president is dead.
There are only two things I wished I could have said to the ex-president: First, I would tell him suicide doesn't solve a problem. All suicide does is transfer your problems to those you leave behind. Not only are they left with your unsolved problems, they are saddled by the guilt of wondering if they might not have done or said something to prevent the tragedy.
The second thing I would like to have shared is taken from Psalm 85. There it says, God forgives His people, He covers all their sins.
Because of Jesus Christ, because of His suffering, sacrifice, substitution, and resurrection -- all who believe on Him as their Savior are forgiven of all their sins.
Did you read that rightly? I hope so.
Jesus forgives us all our sins. There is no sin we have committed, no transgression we have done, which is beyond the Savior's ability to forgive.
I wish I had had the opportunity to say that to the president. I'm glad I had the opportunity to say it to you. God forgives the iniquity of His people; He covers all their sins.
THE PRAYER: Dear Lord Jesus, Satan loves to rob people of hope. He does all he can to convince them tomorrow will be as dark as today. Please, send Your Holy Spirit so those who are in darkness may see the light You bring to sin-darkened hearts. Let the discouraged and depressed see Your forgiveness. In Your Name. Amen.
In Christ I remain His servant and yours,
Pastor Ken Klaus
Speaker emeritus of The Lutheran Hour®
Lutheran Hour Ministries
Today's Bible Readings: Psalms 39-41 John 12:27-50
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