Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God. - I John 4:15 NKJV
The last time I was visiting my folks in Indiana, I got an olive oil stain on the front of a new shirt. I figured that was it; the blemish would never come out. My sister-in-law Lynn assured me she had a stain remover that would do the job. Though skeptical, I figured there was nothing to lose. Lynn kindly treated the spot, washed the shirt, and sure enough, the stain was gone since I've used the product in lots of other things with equal success.
No, this isn't a product endorsement but a message about acceptance. To folks that have not yet accepted Jesus, he may sound too good to be true. There is no possible way he could forgive our sins. We've done such terrible things; how could we possibly be restored? But when we accept him--that's the confession part--as our Lord, an astonishing thing happens, not only are we filled with the Holy Spirit. God actually takes up habitation in that place that was once impure. That stain of sin is removed, and there is no hint of where it once was; it has been forgiven and forgotten.
God, we give you thanks for your Son Jesus Christ, who offered himself as a sacrifice for our sins. We are grateful for the forgiveness found when we accept him as our Lord. We rejoice in the Holy Spirit that leads and guides us in the path of righteousness. Bless us today as we share the good news of Jesus with others. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
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