Thursday; October 16

The Apostle Paul is an interesting character.  Often, when we think about him, we recall him as the insightful Christian writer and tenacious church planter.  We think of him as an incredible man of faith who, according to Christian history, became a martyr for the cause.  Yet, early on, we are introduced to a different man.  Luke describes Saul (Paul’s old name) as being in agreement with those who killed Stephen (Acts 8:1) and goes on to say, “But Saul began ravaging the church, entering house after house, and dragging off men and women, he would put them in prison.” (Acts 8:3).  Before Paul dedicated his life to promoting Christ, he sought to persecute Christians.  I think this is one of the things that makes Paul’s insight into faith and forgiveness so acute.  He knew what it was to be completely clueless and how good it felt being absolutely cleansed.  This concept is a theme in his life that he expressed to Timothy (and us) when he wrote, “It is a trustworthy statement, deserving full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, among whom I am foremost of all. Yet for this reason I found mercy, so that in me as the foremost, Jesus Christ might demonstrate His perfect patience as an example for those who would believe in Him for eternal life.” (I Timothy 1:15-16).

Are we embarrassed by what we have done?  Do we wonder if there is any way that God could forgive us?  One of the greatest writers of the New Testament points to what happened in his life and helps us hold out hope of just how far God’s love and forgiveness can reach.  Is it time for you to come (back) into the fold?  God wants us and is waiting for us!

Think About It!

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