Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! For by His great mercy, He has given us a new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. 1 Peter 1:3 NRSV

There is not a single one of us who has not sinned and fallen short of the glory of God (Note 1). While our resultant unholiness ought to prevent us from being in His holy presence, in His abounding love God refuses to allow that judgment to fall on us. Instead, He sent His Son to die on the cross to bear the punishment we deserve.

God’s extension of mercy doesn’t eliminate our need to repent. Just because God is merciful doesn’t mean He is okay with our sin. And it is vital to remember that our obedience will never save us, only the resurrected Christ can. Obedience is our response to God’s mercy, not a means of earning it.

Prayer: God, I know it was more costly than I can ever comprehend to offer me Your mercy. All praise, honor, and glory to You for Your willingness to save me, even when I was far from You.

Note 1: Romans 3:23.