When dealing with our problems, human beings tend to do one of two things—1) We project “the problem” as being something beyond ourselves. We focus on the misdeeds of other and blame others; or 2) We ignore or overlook the problem. Particularly when it comes to our own shortcomings and failings, we try to “justify ourselves” and imagine that we are just fine.

But Jesus confronts our core human problem head on. The problem is not outside us; the fundamental problem is within is. It is our spiritual brokenness and alienation from God—what the Bible calls sin. If we try to overlook the problem, it just remains unresolved and expresses itself in countless negative ways. Jesus answers the problem of sin on the cross, as He gives his life for us—taking the judgment for our sin upon himself, so that we can be forgiven, and our spirits can be healed.

The problem is not outside us; the fundamental problem is within is. Click To Tweet

So we find the answer to our need not by projecting our troubles outward or by failing to look inward but by acknowledging our human condition and opening our hearts to the salvation that is offered to us in Jesus Christ. It is then—when we know the redeeming love of Christ—that we can begin to find the answer to all the other troubles in our world.

Sunday’s Scripture Readings:
Isaiah 53:4–6
Luke 18:9–14

About the Author

Dr. David A. Palmer has been the senior pastor at the United Methodist Church of Kent since 1995. He has a B.A. from Wittenberg University, a Master of Divinity from Duke University, and a Doctor of Ministry from Princeton Theological Seminary. A native of Wooster, Ohio, he has served three other churches in east Ohio before coming to Kent. He and his wife, Mavis, have three children.