Miracle of Mercy

I Timothy 1:12-17

Paul was a zealous man in all he did. Until he met Christ on the road to Damascus, he fiercely pursued Jesus-followers, persecuting them and blaspheming their God.  “He went around ravaging the church, entering house after house, dragging off men and women, and put them in prison (Acts 8:3).”  When Paul was on his way to Damascus, hoping to carry out further murderous plans, Jesus came and changed his course forever [See Acts 9:1-22 for the dramatic story of Paul’s conversion]. 

Jesus had different plans for Paul – He would use Paul’s zeal for the Father’s holy purposes. “He [Paul] is a chosen instrument of Mine, to bear My name before Gentiles and kings and the sons of Israel (Acts 9:15).” 

In I Timothy 1:12-17, Paul is reflecting on the miracle of his conversion. Not only did Jesus show mercy toward Paul, who, according to his own definition, was the “worst of sinners,” but also considered Paul a faithful and useful servant.  How Paul must have forever marveled that Jesus would even consider putting him into service after all Paul had done against His name and His people! Paul did however realize that, through his life, Christ would show sinners like us His purpose in coming to our planet. We see the Lord’s patience toward sinners in order to bring them to Himself.  We might say, “If God can do this for (in) someone like Paul, as chief sinner, it shows He can do it for anyone, no matter what they (we) have done.” 

So what have you done that you feel disqualifies you from service?  Even more, what is that “worst” sin you think will keep you from Christ’s saving grace?  Remember Paul’s example…and be assured that you, too can be a miracle of God’s amazing grace and mercy.  You, too, will be put into service for Christ’s kingdom.  You, too, can be a modern-day example of Christ’s patience toward sinners.  You, too, can speak of what He has done in your life – His amazing story in you.  I know He has given me a story; and I ask, Lord, that I may be bold to tell it to other sinners who need to know You will never give up on them – no matter what.

Miracle Child

Luke 1:6-7 (NIV)  Both of them were upright in the sight of God, observing all the Lord's commandments and regulations blamelessly.  But they had no children, because Elizabeth was barren; and they were both well along in years. 

A number of years ago there was a popular book making the rounds called, "Why Bad Things Happen to Good People."  Those of us who consider ourselves to be good - wonder why and how such bad things can happen to us?  We ask, "Haven't we been good, done the right things, even sacrificed at times?  We cry out, "Why did this happen to me?

We forget that God never promised we would be exempt from pain or trouble, in fact, quite the opposite. We have been told it is through these trials we will grow in faith and in trust.  Our character will blossom as we pursue God in spite of our roadblocks, our heartaches.

It is the faithful life that will be amazing; the faith-filled life that will be rewarded. Elizabeth and Zechariah had that kind of faith.  They knew there was nothing to big for God to tackle.  They knew God was faithful and would fill the promises he made to them. Childless?  God can handle that.  Barren and elderly?  Again, not to big for God.

What is your insurmountable mountain; what is it you are facing that looms so big before you?  Elizabeth and Zechariah were blessed with a son, and not just any young boy but the one who would pave the way for his cousin, Jesus. God has great plans to bless you too.  Are you ready?

Luke 1:5-17