September 16

1 Timothy 1:12-17

I am grateful to Christ Jesus our Lord, who has strengthened me, because he judged me faithful and appointed me to his service, even though I was formerly a blasphemer, a persecutor, and a man of violence. But I received mercy because I had acted ignorantly in unbelief, and the grace of our Lord overflowed for me with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. The saying is sure and worthy of full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners – of whom I am the foremost. But for that very reason I received mercy, so that in me, as the foremost, Jesus Christ might display the utmost patience, making me an example to those who would come to believe in him for eternal life. To the King of the ages, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.

 Take a moment to imagine Paul, having applauded and even seen to the persecution and death of believers in Christ, now experiencing the mercy and patience of that same Christ he’d so hated! What a God, what an incredible conversion! So I ask myself – and you – do you feel unworthy, like too much of a sinner to approach Jesus Christ for mercy, for forgiveness, for tender patience? Look at what Paul did, and look at what God gave to him! Jesus wants to hold you, surround you, dig deep into your heart with light and life, so that others will see the grace of God in you. It is possible, it is for this moment. Whatever it is, let it go! I am praying for you.

Pastor Lisa Bosworth