Hope for the Future

Jacob, a grabber and a deceiver, will grab every opportunity to get what he wants. He’s mentally quick to strike a bargain with anybody, including God when it’s suits his purpose. Yet Jacob is convinced he needs redemption and deliverance from impulsive, shameful behavior, so he promises to honor and serve God and give Him a tenth of his earnings.

 

Why would God take a person of such low character and promise him hope for a bright future? God’s grace is greater than our sins, so He sees far beyond the moment to what a person who has been redeemed will do to fulfill His purposes. Consider Peter, who in anger denied even knowing Jesus. 

  

It is our privilege to seize the day and realize that whatever our past has been, by God’s grace there can be a bright future for us. When to the best of our ability we commit our lives to the Lord Jesus Christ for redemption, we are no longer condemned but saved for eternity. Jacob could now go on his journey knowing God had touched him in a way he would never forget.

Choosing Compassion and Forgiveness - Part 2

The parable of the prodigal son is interesting because it raises issues that  are familiar to everyone. It's impossible to perfectly chart a course for one's life without making a few wrong turns or occasionally stumbling into a stinking hog pen. Unwise choices and decisions often produce painful consequences.

The older son in this parable sees his father as excessively lenient on his younger brother, whom he identifies as a slacker. This older, responsible son is angry because his brother needs to face the consequences of his foolish behavior and choices rather than being coddled and indulged. Some have characterized the older brother as jealous and narcissistic in addition to being greedy.

It's possible to get so stuck in negative emotions that feelings of love and compassion are beyond reach, but this is a lonely road to travel. There is, however, deliverance and help for anyone who would respond to God's love. He unhesitatingly gave Jesus, his most prized possession, for our redemption.