6 For while we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. (Romans 5:6)
This is a verse I go back to often. On days that I forget my identity, it heals my soul. There is something to be praised at the way God works even in the ungodly. Despite the human condition or current status, God still works for salvation. Even when I knowingly go contrary to His movement, He still works. This “common” grace is anything but. Why then is it our natural inclination to clean ourselves up first before presenting our works to Christ? This is not realistic, nor is it Biblical.
But Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord . . . (Acts 9:1)
The story of Paul starts as a violent sinner, and ends as a martyred saint. Throughout this strange narrative, Christ was working. Paul is a hyperbolic example of our father’s love. In this, we should be comforted. We cannot sin our way out of the Kingdom. We cannot escape the grasp of this great love. While Paul was plotting against the Bride of Christ, our Lord was redeeming his contrary gospel.
So there is hope for YOU, and there is hope for THEM
There is no one who our Lord cannot reach and no one who cannot be found in all humanity. Do you have hope? Do you live the day like it is saturated in grace? How about that co-worker, criminal, or neighbor? Do you honestly believe that they are one breath away from salvation? If Paul teaches anything, it is no sin is too great for a God who loves so greatly.
Lord, thank you for Paul. Thank you for putting him in Scripture and offering us hope. Thank you that nothing defines us but your grace. Help us to offer this to others.
Matt simon blog 