Advent Devotions

Today’s author is Prince of Peace member Deb Cordes.

“Oh, how generous and gracious our Lord was! He filled me with the faith and love that come from Christ Jesus. This is a trustworthy saying, and everyone should accept it: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—and I am the worst of them all. But God had mercy on me so that Christ Jesus could use me as a prime example of his great patience with even the worst sinners. Then others will realize that they, too, can believe in him and receive eternal life. All honor and glory to God forever and ever! He is the eternal King, the unseen one who never dies; he alone is God. Amen.” 1^st Timothy

What strikes me about this passage is the forgiveness and generosity God showed to Saul.

I am always amazed by God’s continuing forgiveness of our actions and thoughts. While there may be repercussions needed, God forgives and set us right in Their eyes.   

My family’s way of reacting to shortcomings, mistakes and just plain dumb decisions was usually: “Well, if you had a halo and wings, you’d be perfect. Otherwise, stuff happens, just learn from it and try not to let it happen again.”  Forgiveness was assumed even if it took time. The tag line was “…and remember I love you and so does God.”

Sometimes, we all feel like “the worst sinners” whose failure mount again and again. We tend to punish ourselves over and over again for the smallest failing. Yet, God has forgiven us and set us right once again.

Paul confesses his errors/mistake and shortcomings in the knowledge that God provides eternal life. God exhibits patience and extends grace. He knows what failures we all are yet accepts us just as we are.

My Prayer for today: God, help us to know and believe in your forgiveness and grace. Let us feel your forgiveness that we may forgive ourselves. May we live and love more fully in your imaging. May we learn from our mistakes and remember Your unending love.