So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus. Romans 8:1 (NLT)
Someone recently mentioned that they didn't know if God could use them because their past was full of "colorful" things. I've had this thought. How can God use someone who has made so many embarrassing mistakes? How can I represent a pure and Holy God when my past has been anything but.
We often forget that God's plan for our lives has nothing to do with our merit. Let's face it, if it did he couldn't use any of us. It's about Jesus. Always about Jesus and the gift of grace we are given when we accept him as our Lord and Savior.
Jesus said, "It is finished." He didn't say "It will be finished when you get your act together." He knew we couldn't. He knew we were hopeless and helpless. Yet, he did what he did anyway.
Today's text says "So now there is no condemnation." Now. Not when you get it together. Not when you make up for your past. Not when you are sure some of the ugly won't show up again....NOW.
Let's accept this grace that we have been given. Let's believe in it and cherish it. And then, we should let it change us so we can share it with others.