"I thank You, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, Your dear Son, that You have kept me this night from all harm and danger; and I pray that You would keep me this day also from sin and every evil, that all my doings and life may please You. For into Your hands I commend myself, my body and soul, and all things. Let Your holy angel be with me, that the evil foe may have no power over me. Amen." (Luther's Morning Prayer)
Wednesday, April 3, 2024 - Day 94 (Through the Bible in a year readings for today: Judges 10,11; Luke 9:1-36)
THE SECRET TO PEACE
Therefore I tell you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven—for she loved much. But he who is forgiven little, loves little.” And he said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.” Then those who were at table with him began to say among themselves, “Who is this, who even forgives sins?” And he said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.” (Luke 7:47-50 ESV)
All we know about the past of the woman in this account is that she was from the city and she was known as a sinner. What we know about her present is that she came to Jesus with a contrite heart shown in her actions of washing his feet with her tears and drying them with her hair. And how did Jesus respond?
“Your sins are forgiven... Your faith has saved you; go in peace.”
So what is the secret to peace? It is so very simple.
REPENT AND BELIEVE!
1. Jesus sinners doth receive;
Oh, may all this saying ponder
Who in sin's delusions live
And from God and heaven wander!
Here is hope for all who grieve--
Jesus sinners doth receive.
2. We deserve but grief and shame,
Yet His words, rich grace revealing,
Pardon, peace, and life proclaim.
Here their ills have perfect healing
Who with humble hearts believe--
Jesus sinners doth receive.
4. Come, ye sinners, one and all,
Come, accept His invitation;
Come, obey His gracious call,
Come and take His free salvation!
Firmly in these words believe:
Jesus sinners doth receive.
5. I, a sinner, come to Thee
With a penitent confession;
Savior, mercy show to me
Grant for all my sins remission.
Let these words my soul relieve:
Jesus sinners doth receive.
7. Now my conscience is at peace,
From the Law I stand acquitted;
Christ hath purchased my release
And my every sin remitted.
Naught remains my soul to grieve,--
Jesus sinners doth receive.
(“Jesus Sinners Doth Receive,” The Lutheran Hymnal #324)
Dear Lord, thank You for the example of the woman who washed Your feet with her tears. Please grant me Your peace as I, too, repent and believe. Amen.
Pastor David Paape
Daily Bible Reading Chart covering the entire Bible in one year.
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