This time I’m writing out the plan in them, carving it on the lining of their hearts. I’ll be their God, they’ll be My people . . . They’ll get to know Me by being kindly forgiven, with the slate of their sins forever wiped clean.
Such are the words from The Message’s version of Hebrews 8:10-12. This paraphrase of God’s heart toward me makes my own heart overflow with sweet relief. In answer to this dispatch of unlimited grace, I find myself responding with thankfulness in a myriad of ways.
What about you? How do you respond to the notion of being kindly forgiven and granted a fresh start? Do you marvel at the lavishness of Father’s love, bestowed without hesitation? Without reservation? Do you hold onto gratefulness with a firm grip, knowing God never holds a grudge against you?
It is both intimidating and freeing to realize the extravagance of God’s goodness poured out so generously upon the likes of me. I continue to marvel that Father never throws my past sins in my face, no matter how many times I’m prone to repeat them. He always, always, always offers me enough grace to begin anew.
Oh, the marvel of having God’s handprint of love sealed upon my heart, assured that I, in turn, have been seared upon His own. Grafted in by grace. Gifted with this new and lasting Covenant of Christ in me. Kindly forgiven and brought near to His throne of mercy. My desperation replaced with living hope.
This is both the wonder and the joy of my salvation: To be found running for my very life, only to be caught.
Captured by grace, yet forged for freedom.
Held safe in Father’s arms. Forever.
I can think of no better resolution than to recognize and to receive this gift of being kindly forgiven. No higher honor offered back to our Lord than to open this precious promise and simply rest in our God-breathed worth.
Jesus is the One who gives your life value, my friend.
May this be the year you realize it in full.
May this be the year you live within the wonder of grace amazing.
May this be the year you get to know your Savior by being kindly forgiven.
May this be the year you humbly accept the gift of a slate wiped clean.
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FOR REFLECTION
How do you respond to the notion of being kindly forgiven and granted a fresh start?
Is it hard to accept the truth that God does not hold your past mistakes against you? Why or why not?
What practical steps will you take toward living as one whose slate has been wiped clean by the gift of grace?