Tuesday; February 18

          Have you ever done something you knew had the potential to get you disciplined at work?  Sure, a lot of us did things at school that might have gotten us called into the Assistant Principle’s Office, but no matter how serious that punishment was, we pretty much knew that we would be able to finish out our high school career.  However, there are some mistakes in the work-world that are serious enough to get us fired and, for most of us that would be a life-changing event.  Now, whether or not you have been in this situation, you can imagine the angst associated with that type of meeting with the boss.  What will they do?  Will I be scolded, suspended or fired?  Now, imagine your employer coming in and saying, “Yes, what you did was wrong and I could punish you for it, but I will be lenient.  I don’t want to lose you as a part of our team, so go on and get back to work!”.  What an incredible feeling that would be!  Wouldn’t this type of second chance give us a faith in leadership and prompt us to be committed to our company?
          Now, the reason I bring this up is to point out God’s mercy.  When we sin, we make mistakes that bring about a serious consequence.  Yet, rather than being quick with discipline, God has decided to give us a second chance.  The Bible puts it this way, “But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved) ...” (Ephesians 2:4-5).  Sure, I believe that there are things we must do to make our relationship right, but the offer of merciful forgiveness should instill a hope and a relief that enrich our lives.  Because of that mercy, we should be dedicated to our work for and worship to God.
          Let’s be grateful for grace.  Not only does it give us a second chance, it also gives us the ability to try (even when we fail).
          Think About It!

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