07-09-21

ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHING
July 9, 2021
Scripture: 1 John 1:9
If we confess our sins, he who is faithful and just will forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

Thought for the Day: I am always a bit troubled by the word IF. I don’t believe the God I meet in Jesus to be much of If/Then kind of God. The word IF gives the impression of the proverbial carrot being placed in front of us. And that’s the way 1st John seems to present God’s forgiveness – as something only provided IF we confess our sins. It makes me wonder if there is a difference between God’s perspective and our perspective. What I am suggesting is that God’s love is limitless and God’s forgiveness is beyond measure. Those amazing gifts can be forever presented to us, but unless we acknowledge our need for forgiveness, how can we ever experience the benefits of forgiveness. Confession is the genuine expression of one’s sins, failures and transgressions. I see it as the unlocking of a door where forgiveness had been sitting on the other side waiting patiently.

Prayer: Loving God, you are merciful and kind. Continue to draw us into those experiences where we can appreciate and utilize the magnificence of your gifts that are freely given. Amen.

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