Free of Sin

 “For God was in Christ, reconciling the world to himself, no longer counting people’s sins against them. And he gave us this wonderful message of reconciliation.”

2 Corinthians 5:19

One bright Sunday morning, a young pastor spoke these words gently to his congregation. “For some reason,” he said, “many people think the church is merely a museum for saints. And in some ways, that is true. But we must also be a hospital for sinners. It’s not either/or. God calls us to be both.”

Paul spoke clearly to this in his second letter to the Corinthian church. In chapter five, verse 17, he writes about the “new creation” we become once we give our lives to Christ. “The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” Our sins are forgiven and no longer counted against us. Our lives are eternally changed. He has reconciled us to His Kingdom, wrapping His arms around us and welcoming us home.

Even though we’ve been changed by Christ, we will face temptations of the world. A community of love and support of fellow believers can be essential in keeping our eyes on the God who has redeemed us. We are not part of an “either/or” faith. We must welcome the sinner and spread the message of change. But we need to hold our brothers and sisters close, lifting them up and helping them walk God’s path.

Today’s One Thing

Call or email a member of your faith community and tell them how much they are valued both by you and the Lord.

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