Ok, so I've had this idea floating around in my head since I was in Miami visiting my cousin Jon in October. He enjoys watching Two & a Half Men...Not really my kind of show but it can be mildly amusing at times. Anyway, one of the episodes we watched had Charlie getting the family, including Berta, to go to church with his girl of the week. So they're singing a hymn, I think its "Bringing in tthe Sheaves", and Berta keeps eyeing Charlie while she's singing. When he asks why, she replies that she's waiting to see him burst into flames or be struck by lightening...
Upon seeing and hearing that, I was reminded of the many people I've recently heard say things along that line. You know who I mean, you have that friend (or friends) who say that the place will burn down or lightening will strike if they cross the threshold of the Lord's sanctuary. My heart sinks when I hear that, and my first thought is GRACE! When we think we've gone too far, so far that we can never return, that is when Grace means the most. Our Father doesn't play around! He offers us in unconditional love and forgiveness, all we have to do is turn to Him. Bursting into flames, lightening, whatever phrasing you want to use, doesn't happen. What happens is an outpouring of GRACE!
Luke 15 discusses a few parables that are quite appropriate to this topic. Luke 15:4-7 speaks of the Lost Sheep. The shepherd goes out searching for his one sheep. The other 99 are safe in his fold and yet he turns around; after a hard day most likely, hungry & tired, and goes back out actively searching for the one who is lost. When it is found, the shepherd lays it across his shoulders, carries it home and there is much rejoicing. Verse 7 is the kicker here: "I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over the ninety-nine just persons, which need no repentance." (Also of note...If you just scoffed to yourself that obviously you belong with the 99 righteous, humble yourself in the sight of your Lord and seek His grace.) If you need further food for thought on coming back to the fold or the farm after falling into the trap of the world, may I gently *nudge nudge* remind you of the prodigal son...Also found in Luke 15 -- You can go read that one on your own :-)
Christmas marks the time when Our Lord began to put His ultimate sacrifice plan into action, leaving heaven and becoming a baby. Our God, came down helpless and dependant. In order so that we would have a mediator, a covering veil when we go before the ultimate Judge. If you or someone you know is afraid of inviting the fire or lightening bolt, now is a most opportune time to reassert the message of God's grace and compassion as we celebrate the gift of His son, Jesus Christ.
May the Peace of our Lord be with you and yours as you celebrate this holy Christmas season!
