“For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard. Yet God, in his grace, freely makes us right in his sight. He did this through Christ Jesus when he freed us from the penalty for our sins.” Romans 3:23-24 (NLT)
Have you ever started something and then not finished it or completed something without being satisfied with the results? Several years ago, I was running a 5K road race with a friend. It was a beautiful day with clear skies and warm without being hot. The course was through neighborhoods with a few challenging hills. I started fine, keeping pace with my friend, then about two miles in on an incline, I felt my hamstring snap, bringing me to a complete stop, and finished the race, hobbling in with the walkers. I had fallen short in the race and felt disappointed to miss out on the camaraderie and post-race festivities I had been so looking forward to.
Just as I missed the joy and fellowship, I had anticipated that day, Paul, in Romans 3:23-26, speaks of how sin causes us to miss out on something far greater: the fullness of life and relationship with God. Sin creates a separation that leaves us spiritually limping and unable to join in the "festivities" of peace, joy, and purpose found in God's presence. Thankfully, Paul does not stop at diagnosing the problem. He reminds us of the cure: God’s grace offered through Jesus Christ. Grace is not just about forgiveness; it is also about restoration.
After six months of rest and physical therapy, I fully recovered—though occasionally, I feel a tweak in my hamstring as a reminder of the injury. Similarly, we may feel the sting of remorse for our sins or a sense of loss for the joy and opportunities sin has cost us. Yet, through the gift of Christ’s sacrifice, God invites us back into fellowship with Him. Grace heals our disappointment and restores us to the abundant life we were created to experience. We are forgiven, accepted, and continually transformed through Jesus Christ to reflect His love and holiness.
Though we may feel the ache of past sins like a lingering injury, we can rejoice that through Jesus Christ, God offers more than healing—He offers restoration and renewal. Let us live in gratitude and confidence, knowing His grace is sufficient for us all. Gracious and loving God, we thank You for meeting us in our weakness and offering us the gift of Your grace. Though we stumble and fall short, Your love lifts us up and restores us to You through Jesus Christ. Help us to live as a reflection of Your grace and to grow in holiness day by day. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
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