Raided and Seized
Former U.S. Rep. Eric Swalwell had his electronic devices seized and his home searched by federal agents over the weekend as part of an ongoing investigation of alleged sexual assault. The former Congressman resigned from Congress in April of this year after allegations intensified, and he ended a once-promising bid to be the next Governor of California. Federal authorities must now decide whether to bring charges against Swalwell.
Analysis and eternal perspective: It seems like a breathtaking fall from grace—an ascendant national political figure in April and the target of federal raids and property seizures in August. However, this type of rapid unraveling of a reputation has been a fairly regular occurrence across human history. The seemingly mighty fall in what feels like a moment, and the common thread is the sin nature that runs through every human heart.
To be clear, the U.S. judicial system affords Swalwell (and every other individual investigated for or accused of a crime) the presumption of innocence. But even more important, each of us is in fact guilty! We are all tainted by sin and in need of the Savior’s redemptive grace.
A story like this one is reveled in and capitalized on by political rivals. But for The Equipped family, it serves as a compassionate reminder of our own inclination toward sin. It is a vivid example of our own need to throw ourselves at the foot of the cross and declare our need for undeserved forgiveness. And it is an exhilarating reminder that we have in fact been granted that all-encompassing forgiveness!
This story will be on breathless repeat through many outlets, and similar stories about politicians of different partisan stripes will lead the news on other outlets. But remember, the common thread is the sin nature we all share, and you hold the only antidote to that sin! It is a relationship with Jesus Christ! Let’s be prepared to offer it even in the most surprising situations. Sin nature is ubiquitous, but so is the unmerited offer of grace and forgiveness!