01/02/2025
A Fresh Experience of Grace and Forgiveness… Here’s a story that’ll preach
Why do we need a fresh experience of grace and forgiveness? Because grace is receiving what we need, not what we deserve.
David Hagler, a writer for the L.A. Times, shared a story that illustrates this perfectly. He recalled driving too fast in the snow when a policeman pulled him over and issued a ticket. David tried to talk his way out of it, explaining how the ticket would raise his insurance rates. He begged for grace. The officer, however, simply replied, "If you don’t like it, you can go to court."
Years later, David was umpiring in a city league game when the same officer came up to bat. The two recognized each other. The officer asked, "How did things go with your ticket?" David stared back at him and said, "Swing at everything!"
Grace. It's a funny thing, isn't it? God gives us grace not because we deserve it, but because He loves us and knows exactly what we need at all times. As Ephesians 1:8 says, "God has showered upon us the richness of His grace for how well He understands us and knows what is best for us at all times."
God invites us to bring it all to Him—the good, the bad, the broken, the shame, and the secrets. He wants us to bring everything
In this moment, as we stand at the beginning of a new year, God is speaking directly to you: You matter. I love you. You can start over. And this time, I will help you. As it says in James 4:6-8, "God gives grace to the humble…so let God work His will in you. Say a quiet 'Yes' to God, and He’ll be there in no time."
Today, I hope you’ll say Yes—Yes, God, I need a new understanding. Yes, God, I need a new beginning, a fresh power, a renewed hope, a fresh start.
Let’s make this year different. Let's say "Yes" to the grace and forgiveness God is offering.
