Eats with Sinners

Why does the simplicity of the gospel have to be misconstrued into something filled with rules and regulations? In my life, the word “grace” has a new meaning. The policy that some churches pursue leaves people with no hope or excuse. Grace is something poetic and beautiful. It is more than a book written by a famous author or a sermon preached flawlessly by a well-dressed pastor.

Grace is hard for me to grasp. I cannot accept something that I do not deserve. My sins are monstrous and disgusting, yet I am an exquisite creation in the eyes of God. I do not deserve to forgiven.

Over the past few months, I have realized that my heart has become hard to the people of the world. I cherish bitterness and self-righteousness. I have become zealous for the very thing I once hated. Knowing this, I indulge myself with the Scriptures to find a cure to this medieval practice. I am only left with this:

“I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that he considered me faithful, appointing me to his service. Even though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man, I was shown mercy because I acted in ignorance and unbelief. The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.
Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst. But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his unlimited patience as an example for those who would believe on him and receive eternal life. Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen.”

The text is filled with grace. God corresponds with his child through the eyes of His Son. Jesus had compassion, love, and grace. He abolished rules and regulations so we could find Him. I have to remind myself everyday.