There is a grace of the hope of redemption that God imparts to spark us to hunger for God, and for His best for us. We all fall short of God’s desires for us, for His best for us, even something we think we are supposed to be or do. It’s part of human nature to feel guilty or condemned for not living up to something we think we are supposed to be or do what we are supposed to do, or for sins we’ve committed. But the grace and truth of Christ will lift us above self-condemnation, guilt and shame.
Truly, we are offered the most powerful grace known to mankind. It’s the grace of God’s redemption. Yes, Christ’s ultimate sacrifice justifies us and paves the way of our redemption. Truly, our vindication and validation were bought by the precious blood of Christ. It’s our gift for the receiving.
…all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24 being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus. (Romans 3:23-25)
RELEVANCE
Justice is something we all look for. We crave seeing wrongs made right, especially when it comes to injustices we feel were done to us. So, God’s grace and truth always brings redemption. Yes, it usually takes time. But it’s ours for the asking. And Jesus would have us keep asking, seeking and knocking.
God’s redemption is also evident in giving us second chances for mistakes we’ve made, or when we’ve failed—at anything. God is truly the God of second chances. And three, even more! It’s in His nature to provide abundant grace and redemption.
But You, O Lord, are a God full of compassion, and gracious,
Longsuffering and abundant in mercy and truth.
(Psalm 86:15)
I’ve made my fair share of mistakes in life. Yet, time after time, after I confess and receive God’s correction and insights, God shows grace and redemption. Truly, despite our shortcomings, failures, and mistakes, God recognizes Jesus’ sacrifice for our redemption. It’s the basis for our reconciliation with Him.
We cannot earn God’s grace. And we don’t have to. No matter how hard we strive nothing can merit the gift of God’s grace. It’s a gift of His awesome love that keeps on giving. Our part is turning to God, confessing our shortcomings, receiving His grace and mercy and the expectancy of His redemption. Yes, for every negative thing that happens to us we have the opportunity to see and experience God’s redemption. Thank you, Jesus!
REFLECT, RELATE AND RESPOND
What redemption do you desire? What second chance do you need? What justice do you seek? Seek the Lord. Call upon Him. Meditate on His goodness, His mercy and grace. Allow expectancy in you to grow inside. He won’t fail you. God doesn’t fail. It’s against His nature. His heart is for us to overcome. And Jesus overcame death and the grave for us! Open your heart to receive His great love, His grace and truth. Experience the grace of His resurrection life and redemption.