By Mark Edward Chard

If “the blood of Jesus” sounds like church language you don’t relate to, hear me for a minute. For me, that phrase isn’t just tradition, it’s a life-changer.

Forgiveness that actually frees. Jesus’ death on the cross means a forgiveness bigger than every mistake, secret, and regret. I used to replay my failures daily. Now I live under a mercy that keeps coming, not a single reset, but an ongoing kindness that teaches me to forgive others and stop punishing myself.

Redemption, not license. Being bought back from a life shaped by bad habits doesn’t excuse careless living. Instead, it gives me purpose and a new direction. Grace changed my desires; it redirected my heart.

Reconciliation with God. The blood of Jesus closes the gap between a holy God and messy people. It’s not a distant justice, it’s invitation. I can come to God honestly, without pretending to be perfect.

Real transformation. This isn’t just an outward fix. It reshapes how I think, what I want, and how I act, slowly, day by day, into the image of Christ.

A future that’s certain. Because Jesus conquered death, there’s hope that carries beyond whatever we face now, a future with no more pain or loss.

If you’re curious, start small: read one of the verses below, or ask God to open your eyes. If you want to talk about it, I’d love to hear your story.

Read: Ephesians 1:7; Romans 12:2; 1 John 1:7; Romans 5:9; Hebrews 10:19; Hebrews 9:12; Revelation 12:11 (NIV)