Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you received something so significant, special, or valuable that you really wanted to in some meaningful way express your gratitude?  Maybe you wanted to give something back or tell others about the person’s deeds. Paul feels that way about the grace he has received and encourages us to do the same.  Let’s look together at his words to Timothy today. 

I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that he considered me trustworthy, appointing me to his service. 13 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. 14 The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.15 Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst. 16 But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience as an example for those who would believe in him and receive eternal life. 17 Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen.

Paul is so overwhelmed with God’s grace and forgiveness that he wants his life to be sharing that with others and demonstrating just what God can do. The truth is we should all feel the very same way.  Paul is encouraging both Timothy and us today to thank God for His immense gift of grace by offering our lives in return.  We are called to share His gift of grace and love with the world in our response of gratitude.  May we all be reminded today of the magnitude of the gift we have been given by Jesus.

In His Grip,

Pastor Dave