Rise, like the sun
The day will be what you make it, so rise, like the sun, and burn. -William C. Hannan
Wake up to forgiveness.
Peter and Paul preached powerfully in Acts the forgiveness of sins for all. No matter who you see, or where they are in life -this message is for all. All made new! This belief in action is the cultural shift we need. In our struggle we need to hear, need to say, need to live out the absolute freedom of being forgiven. This is our shared and common reality for those in faith.
Acts 10:43 Of Him all the prophets bear witness that through his name everyone who believes in Him receives the forgiveness of sins. (Peter)
Acts 11:38-39 Therefore let it be known to you, brethren, that through Him forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you, and through Him everyone who believes is freed from all things, from which you could not be freed through the law of Moses. (part of Paul’s first recorded sermon)
What God says to us- we say to others. Peter heard him say it. Paul heard him say it. This is the message of the church. You are forgiven. Freely you have received, freely give. As you go- tell them, even if they are still in their struggle. Forgiveness is essential to the message and to those attempting to live the message- otherwise we drift like my kids on boogie boards drift on the water pulled by currents and wind so quickly out of sight. Don’t loose sight of the powerful message of forgiveness.
As you go connecting with friends, at beach gatherings, summer weddings- tell those you are with the original message.
Tell them they are immeasurably loved. Tell them all the prophets, every great man that has spoken on the behalf of God, gave witness to this forgiveness. Tell them to believe it, they are forgiven and free. Tell them they are no longer bound- because their boundless God is for them.
“Stay dressed for action and keep your lamps burning, and be like men who are waiting for their master to come home from the wedding feast, so that they may open the door to him at once when he comes and knocks. (Luke 12:35-36 ESV)
Don’t coast through summer. Make plans for living intentional although schedules change- purpose doesn’t. Pray into your purpose. God’s power falls upon you and I as we pray, let’s believe in His plan for our next few months. Stay alert and burn ever brighter on these hot summer nights. I see you bold- in His name, forgiven, and free. The King is more gracious than we ever knew. The Savior is daily saving, by grace through faith. Son, daughter- brother, sister- we don’t live with a perfect team- we live with the forgiven. Jesus said, “Father forgive them”- the only question is will you believe it?
Live a clean slate- fresh clothes- fresh sheets- new page- new shades- new day -fresh motives -strong faith. Live made new. I don’t purchase new white Husdon jeans and not wear them- I put them on. Today, is your second chance- live well.
