“Child who inherits all our transgressions”

 

“Child who inherits all our transgressions”


Carol: “Child in the Manger” – Mary MacDonald (19th Century)
Tune: BUNESSAN – Gaelic

Talk about something that is upside down and backwards! Here’s one!

When we talk about somebody inheriting someone’s fortune, it is coming to them from people who came before them… their forebears: parents, grandparents, uncles/aunts… even total strangers. That’s the way we understand how inheritance works, right?

In the case of Christ, however, he inherits all the transgressions which will come AFTER him – from the cross forward! Have you ever thought about that? Obviously Mary MacDonald, the 19th Century hymn-writer, had when she penned these lines:

Child who inherits all our transgressions,
All our demerits on him fall.

Every sin, transgression, trespass, demerit that ever went on the books went to HIS account… he has inherited every last one.

So often we hear of some penniless wretch who suddenly becomes powerfully wealthy by the inheritance of a long-forgotten relative. Such tales make for great movie plot lines.

In the Jesus narrative, we begin with the most innocent of innocents who over time suddenly becomes rich in sin and debauchery… none of which is his own. In order for us to inherit his Father’s kingdom, he must inherit our sins. Like I said, it is upside down and backwards.

A paradox is lurking in the streets of Bethlehem… a paradox that will become fully grown about 32 years later in the streets of Jerusalem. Upside down. Backwards. Rightside Up. Perfect. Going according to plan.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lrAgBx5qkCI