Arraignment

For we all must appear before the judgment seat of Christ so that each of us may receive what is due us for the things done while in the body whether good or bad.  2 Corinthians 5:10

I’ve never been to court except to serve on jury duty, but recently, I had the experience.  If you don’t know about it (as I didn’t), there is a law called The Move Over Law which requires that you move over when an emergency vehicle is on the side of the road.  In my defense, there were many more cars which didn’t move over, but I won the prize of a citation.  The fine was so huge, that I decided I needed to at least try to win some kind of reduction, so I went to court.

I had no idea what to expect, but luckily, I met a guy outside the court room who had obviously done this many times, and he was able to clue me in as to what I should expect.  He ended by saying, “It all depends on the judge.”

The judge entered the courtroom, we all rose, and he began to give us the rules.  First, no leaning on his bench, stand up straight.  Second, if you don’t have a driver’s license, please don’t attempt to drive away from court.  Lastly, please read the paper given you and sign it!!  Then, he said something which shocked and frightened me; “Folks, this is your arraignment.”

Arraignment is defined as a court hearing in a criminal case in which the charges are read out to the accused, and he or she must plead guilty or not guilty.

When my name was called, I sat with the prosecuting attorney and she asked, “How do you plead?  Guilty or Not Guilty?”  The question was  sobering, and I wasn’t prepared to answer it, so I told her my story and she gave me my options.

As I waited to come before the judge, I watched person after person walk forward and make their pleas.  One young man was a repeat offender, and the judge’s sentence was harsh for him.  “Son, he said, you cannot drink and drive.  I’ve warned you and now I am going to have to send you to jail.  Don’t pass go – just go straight from here to jail.”  Just as I was thinking that I didn’t luck out on the judge, my name was called.  I stood very straight before the bench.  The judge read my report, looked at me and said, “Mrs. Mikler, you have a perfect driving record, and I’m removing this citation from your record for you.  Pay the fine and you are free to go.  Then he added, “Sorry, I wish I could reduce the fine.”  Did that mean I was not guilty?  I think the judge was just merciful.

I began to wonder if this will be the scenario when I stand before the ultimate judge at the end of my life.  Will He ask if I’m “guilty” or “not guilty” of sin, judgment, neglect, selfishness, and so many others?  Will I be able to defend my actions and decisions, or will I have to plead guilty.?  Will my ruling be harsh or will it be merciful?  Will I be able to give a good account of my life or will I be sorely lacking?

In retrospect, I’m thankful that I had a good judge, and I know I’ll have a fair and merciful one at the end of life.  In the meantime, I don’t want to be a  “repeat offender”, and I really want to strive to be able to  plead “Not Guilty”.  I also pray that I never have the occasion to be in court again!  I am; however, thankful for merciful judges.