For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer, but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil. 1 Peter 3:12 NIV
When we commit to follow Christ, we begin our journey to righteousness. This path may be arduous at times, and we may not feel especially righteous. We are not perfect; we still sin – although unintentionally, but when we seek repentance, God forgives. He knows our hearts' content, watches over us, and listens to our prayers.
God also sees the actions of those who do evil, those who intentionally harm others. He does not condone this evil, and there is a day coming when they will stand in judgment of their acts. However, this does not mean these folks are without hope. If they earnestly seek God's forgiveness, they too can become one of the righteous. Jesus Christ came not only for the moderately sinful – as if there can be a distinction – but to offer salvation to all of us; the abuser, rapist, and murderer showed the same grace. It is difficult for us to comprehend this kind of forgiveness, but God desires that all should come to him.
God of grace, thank you for watching over us and hearing our prayers. Especially we give thanks for the forgiveness found in Jesus Christ for all people. You offer us a new way when we come to you with a broken and contrite spirit. You direct our hearts from sin and evil unto the paths of righteousness. Open our hearts to offer your kind of forgiveness to those who have harmed us. We pray this in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Shalom,
Pastor Tim
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