The Shore of Your Ocean

Luke 22 NLT
31“Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift each of you like wheat. 32But I have pleaded in prayer for you, Simon, that your faith should not fail. So when you have repented and turned to me again, strengthen your brothers.”

This verse has brought both a little more understanding, and a lot more peace this morning.  It's funny to me, how I can read, and read a certain verse over, and over, and then, see something new.

First of all, Christ has PLEADED in prayer for His disciples. This verse doesn't necessarily say He pleads in prayer for me, but it does paint a picture of His nature, which we know does not change.  Jesus knows, at this point, that He is about to hand himself over to be crucified, and yet His concern is not for Himself, but His friends. And not only that, but He knows that they WILL fail Him.

God's mercy is so much larger than I can possibly imagine. As I read this, the lyrics to the song, "What Do I Know of Holy," come to my mind. "Where have I even stood, but the shore along Your ocean?" As soon as I start to think I have an inkling of an idea about God, I realize I've barely glimpsed the surface of His majesty.

These few verses tell me that even though He knows exactly how we will fail, he's neither surprised nor condemning. He is allowing for mercy. "Don't give up when you fail. Repent and get back to the job of helping others." [Paraphrased]

I don't know why He's so good, and merciful, and patience, but I am so glad HE IS!

Today as you walk through this day, remember that Jesus loved you so much that He was willing to die for you, even though He knew you would fail, over and over. But even before He died, He gave us hope, and a way.

Don't loose faith WHEN you fail..."So when you have repented and turned to me again, strengthen your brothers.”

Have a blessed and peaceful day.