Truth be told, there are times that I don’t want grace and love because I know without a shadow of a doubt, I don’t deserve them. Then, because as humans, we are so good at this, I make it all about myself. I get drenched in my own personal whirlwind of selfishness. I become selfish and angry because I feel like I’m entitled to the people who help me. I start keeping score in my head. I start serving them to even the score and just like that, I've missed it. I have taken opportunities that were so genuine and undeniable and I’ve turned them into just another chore I have to fulfill in order feel better about myself. Still, after I’ve confessed this to my brothers, they forgive me. And not only do they forgive me, they invite me over to their place and make me breakfast.
I’ve never experienced unconditional love such as this.
The idea that my community knows my sin, my ugliness, my shortcomings, yet still love me and serve me, is way beyond my comprehension. I love that I get to live this daily life of repentance alongside my brothers and sisters. I am constantly in awe as they continue to live out the Gospel by extending grace and love. This unconditional love comes from experiencing God’s forgiveness and salvation, therefore, loving others is merely just a reflection of Jesus in their lives.
These past couple of months I’ve had the opportunity to be discipled by Pastor Marco. I’ve been able to see Pastor Marco worship Jesus through his victories and his failures. At the same time, he has also seen me make many mistakes. Pastor Marco has proven time and time again, that despite my mistakes, he will come beside me and point me to the cross.
Throughout the months, I’ve had to deny my pride and ask for help. For example, on Good Friday, my hand got pinned between the top part of the tire and the weight of the front left side of the car. Basically, a tire change gone wrong. As I was being rushed to the emergency room, I called Marco to let him know about the accident. Immediately, he rushed from McAllen to join me at KNAPP medical center in Weslaco. I was extremely grateful for my brother. Once again proving that despite my past mistakes, he was going to be there through it all. The whole time at the hospital was spent laughing.
“Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble.” (1 Peter 3: 8)
I have learned tremendously these past couple of months. I have heard Sunday morning messages that have left everlasting prints in my heart. But above all, I continue to learn how to honor God in my consequences. My church community has played an integral role in this process. I am thankful for each and every one of you.
Older
Top
