Just and Unjust Alike

Mark Twain once said, “The rain is famous for falling on the just and unjust alike, but if I had the management of such affairs, I would rain softly and sweetly on the just, but if I caught a sample of the unjust outdoors, I would drown him.”

I think most of us can relate! It is a good thing God is God and not us. And truly, this is a blessing. Because God is merciful and gracious and abounding in steadfast love, we ourselves are assured of forgiveness. There can be redemption, and there are second chances. And as difficult as it might be, Jesus ever invites us to share this same grace and forgiveness with others.

In the book of Isaiah it is written, 

Seek the Lord while he may be found,
    call upon him while he is near; let the wicked forsake their way,
    and the unrighteous their thoughts;
 let them return to the Lord, that he may have mercy on them,
    and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.
For my thoughts are not your thoughts,
    nor are your ways my ways, says the Lord.

Let us pray: God of hope, we praise you for you are Love Unconditional. We thank you for offering us forgiveness, and for loving us so much that you continually invite us to change and to grow. As we have received mercy and grace, so empower us to be people of mercy and grace. We pray today for the ability to love and serve all your children. We ask in Jesus’ name. Amen.