I am a movie buff.  I’ll sit on the edge of my seat, cheering for the good guy and glad to see the bad guy get what he deserves.

Then, reading my Bible later, it occurs to me: Jesus would be rooting for the bad guy.  Not for what the villain does, but for the human being.  God does not want to see sin win.  He wants to see man freed from sin.

Let’s be totally upfront here.  There are times when I am the villain.  One thoughtless word or selfish deed, and I become the bad guy.  I am so very thankful that Jesus isn’t watching, waiting for me to get my come-uppance. 

Wouldn’t it be great to watch a movie and see the bad guy get saved, repent and turn from his evil ways (as opposed to going down violently in a hail of gunfire)?  Imagine the money the studios would save on fake ammo, pyrotechnics and red-dyed corn syrup.

“I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people – for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.” – 1 Timothy 2:1-4 (NIV)