Every Moment of Forever

“Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners-of whom I am the worst. But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience as an example for those who would believe in him and receive eternal life.” 1 Timothy 1:15-16 

My child,

I want you to meditate on this “trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance.” Christ came into the world and paid the price for your sin, because I want you to spend every moment of forever with me.

Paul talks about how he was the worst of all sinners. He felt like that, but I actually don’t rate sin. You are all on the same playing field. There is no Sinner’s A and B team. No good, worst, better, and bad sinners. There is no point system. It is binary in my moral economy. There is perfect. And there is not perfect. I am perfect. You are not.

I know you don’t fully understand why the payment for sin is death (eternal absence from my presence). You could comprehend it better, if you could truly grasp my perfect holiness. But that is not possible. You will need to trust me on this.

My truth about human sin and my mercy is not trending. I am not fashionable according to the modern ideas of man. I do not morph every time someone changes his, or her, mind about me. The clay does not shape the potter.

Humans want to believe they can climb some imaginary ladder to heaven on their own - one “good deed” rung at a time. But, in reality, it doesn’t work like that. You are sinful like all other humans. Christ was the only exception. He led the perfect life and gave up his life, on your behalf, for your imperfection. His death bought you life. When you accepted his gift of new life, you became part of our family and will live in my perfect presence forever. 

I don’t love you less because you have shortcomings. My love is eternal, unconditional and flawless. And when my love for you is on display, it shows others more about who I am - unparalleled in patience, grace, and compassion. Take pleasure in these gifts I have given you today.

I love you,

Abba

My Abba,

After all these years, I am still blown away by your faultless love for me. All our human attempts at love are so blemished compared to what you offer.

At times, I find myself tempted to look at my latest performance to see how much you might care for me. The phrase we use, “What have you done for me lately?” sometimes still lurks in my mind. Like you are some fair-weather God who ditches me when I don’t perform well. Please forgive me for believing that lie. I know you are perfect in every way. Your forgiveness and love never fail.

Please continue to remind me that you are omnipotent and don’t need anything from me. Sometimes I entertain the subtle deception that whispers to me, “Look how people missed out because you didn’t step up.”

Please ground me in your truth. When I don’t participate in your plans and purposes, I am the only one who misses out. Not you. Not others. I realize I don’t have the power to thwart the God of the Galaxies.

I want to be empowered by your Spirit and active with you today. Not because you need me. But because I need you. And, participating in your kingdom handiwork with you is an unrivaled privilege.

I love you,

Mollie

photo: zhuravlov