But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. - Romans 5:8 (NIV)
Before ministry, I spent 30 years as a manager. Anyone who has held a leadership position knows that sometimes, you need to make difficult decisions. Among these is letting people who cannot perform the required duties go. Early on, I hired a young man with an impressive resume and expressed earnestness in the position. Within the first week of employment, there were indications I had been too quick to hire; he frequently called in sick. When he came in, he was late, and his work quality was subpar when he was there. Despite our best efforts to help him improve, we had to fire him after a few months.
This memory of a long-ago event reminds me of the grace of God. Unlike in the corporate world, where underperformance might lead to termination, God sees our frequent mistakes and still desires a relationship with us. Despite our shortcomings and continual failures, God's love remains steadfast. He knows we will continue to make mistakes, yet He sacrificed His only Son for us, demonstrating the depth of His love and commitment.
We need to remember that our mistakes don't define us. Instead, they highlight the immense need for God's grace. This profound truth is a powerful reminder that no matter how often we fall short, God's grace and desire for a relationship with us never waver. Just as a parent loves their child unconditionally, God's love for us is constant and unchanging. Embracing this truth allows us to live in the present and move forward with hope and assurance, knowing that we are not defined by our past but by Christ's incredible love and sacrifice.
Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your incredible love and grace. Even in our imperfections and mistakes, You remain steadfast and faithful. Help us to embrace the truth that our past does not define us, and let us live in the present with hope and assurance, knowing we are loved and redeemed by Christ's sacrifice. Guide us to seek a deeper relationship with You and to trust in Your unwavering love. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
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