THANKFUL

Chatting with Jesus

Tuesday, April 23, 2024

Lord, many have the wrong impression as who you are and your holy attributes. Some think you’re a cruel judge. Or, a genie who grants all our wishes. Worse, someone uninterested in our lives.

Many, like me, grew up in “a cruel judge” environment where rules and behaviors must be strictly adhered to. We’ve seen the prideful “saints,” bragging how they have kept all the rules and behaviors flawlessly, making them one of the Top Ten believers of all time. And, lord, like you, we found them to be annoying, too.

For fearful believers, break one of the rules, whether intentionally or accidentally, you can forget going to Heaven. You blew it. However, all was not lost. If you mentally, emotionally, and spiritually beat yourself up, beg and plead to show your repentance, God might give you a second chance. But beware. God knows you failed one time, so he marked that down and he has his eye on you. One more mistake and you’ve punched your ticket straight to Hades. To many, “grace” was a mindless prayer recited before eating.

Seeing these misguided souls beating themselves up, trying to show you their penitence, must leave you rolling your eyes and shaking your head. And sad.

“Guys,” I hear you say. “You don’t have to do that. I paid for those sins on the cross. Just accept my grace and keep following me.”

Rule keeping can never replace grace. It’s the gift from God, who is slow to anger, quick to forgive, and thankfully, patient with us (Psalm 103:8). He knows what we go through. After all, Jesus, you became one of us and experienced what we do.

Thank you, Lord, for your mercy, grace, and forgiveness when we fail. Your abundant grace is beyond our comprehension. Amen.