And He said, “Yes, it was written long ago that the Messiah would suffer and die and rise from the dead on the third day. It was also written that this message would be proclaimed in the authority of his name to all the nations, beginning in Jerusalem: There is forgiveness of sins for all who repent.”
Luke 24:46
Well, we left off yesterday looking on as the mercy of Jesus over-rode what must have been a powerful urge to laugh at the disciples – mercy that proceeded to prove to them that the story was true. Everything he had been telling them for the past three years was indeed true.
From Jesus’ own lips straight to our hearts, the verse above tells us He was the Messiah, the Son of the Living God, come to planet Earth for one purpose; to offer forgiveness to all who would repent.
As He appeared to them in verse 36, He continued to prove himself – who he was – that his resurrection was real. My friend, He doesn’t laugh at us when we have a hard time comprehending – grasping – His story, His love, and His mercy. He knows our humanity. He just proves himself once we are willing to take that baby step toward Him – a baby step of belief that He is Who He said he was. He did what he said he would do – and still does today.
16 For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. 17 For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.” John 3:16-17KJV
His love is the real thing – and the real thing – real love – does not condemn the one loved. Instead, it reaches out to the one standing frozen – trying to comprehend the magnitude of the mercy being offered. It reaches out to the one standing stunned, trying to understand the Good News – that ALL our old mistakes – our mess-ups – our sins – can be wiped away. His promise is clear and true –
Look back up there to what he said in verse 47 – I underlined it for you. That includes you dear one. You.
In this Easter season, maybe you are the one standing frozen with doubt, speechless with the same doubts and fears the disciples had, the same thoughts about how “un-be-liev-able” this story is; yet we see God’s own Son ready, willing and able – reaching out to you with a promise of Hope, wanting to prove to you that He is real.
“ Yes Lord. I believe. I repent ( turn from my way – to your way ) as best as I know how. I am willing to learn your ways. I receive your forgiveness. I ask you to come into my life – lead me – guide me – and direct my path. Yes, Lord, I ask this today. In the name of Jesus, amen.”
Precious one, if you just spoke those thoughts to Jesus and meant them from your heart, He now lives in your life. He will never leave you or forsake you. Please email me – just hit reply at the top of the page. What a privilege it would be to get to know you and be your friend and fellow zookeeper.
Until tomorrow……
Your traveling companion
Brenda
photo credit: https://www.freeimages.com/photographer/Rissmu-54229
Thank you, Brenda, and may you, Tom and your family be blessed as you write these devotionals that touch our hearts and remind us who is in charge. Let us give Thanks for the love we feel.