PODCAST
All Paid Up
May 8th, 2013
Matthew 6:5-15
An elderly Dutchman was near to death, just waiting for Jesus to take him home. Family members were gathered around his bed. He turned to his son and said, “Please go and check my toolbox. I want to be sure everything is in order when I meet Jesus.” He had nothing to confess to God; he didn’t need to say “I’m sorry” or to offer forgiveness to anyone. He could face Jesus with perfect confidence because he had lived forgiven and forgiving.
When we ask God for forgiveness, he doesn’t tell us to return later to see if our request has been approved. We don’t have to wait for an altar call on Sunday or for prayer meeting. There is no waiting period.
Charles Wesley prayed, “If to the right or left I stray, that moment, Lord, reprove.”* When we respond quickly to the Holy Spirit’s correction, and turn to God, we find his forgiveness is always available.
There is one condition. Jesus said if we forgive we will also be forgiven. We can enjoy his presence and grace, forgiven and forgiving.
Author: Juanita Nelting
