Titus 2:11-14
For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all people. It trains us to reject ungodliness and worldly lusts and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope, that is, the glorious appearance of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ. He gave himself for us, to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people who are his own chosen people, eager to do good works.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Through your Son, your grace appeared; he came to us that first Christmas morning as a child dependent upon his earthly mother to care for all his needs. All the while, he was bringing to us our redemption. Through Jesus’ death on the cross, he brought salvation into the world by forgiving sins; through faith, forgiveness and salvation are ours. Growing in our trust, we learn to reject all the temptations which come our way. But like in learning all things, we are not experts from the start; we try, fail, practice, and improve. You tell us in your word, and we know by faith that we have the promise of forgiveness. When we make mistakes, your forgiveness is not to give us a license to sin all the more. Instead, comfort us as we turn back to you in repentance to hold on to you in faith and receive the peace of forgiveness when we err. Lord, you have sent your Son to redeem us from all our sins. Through Jesus’ forgiveness, we have been set aside as your people. We are clothed in Christ’s righteousness; we are your chosen people. Give us the strength to live lives acceptable and pleasing to you and the courage to share that message with others so they, too, will know you and your love. Thank you for sending Jesus and for the forgiveness of sins for his sake. Amen.
Pastor Roger Emmons
When you learned to ride a bike, did you not learn to crawl and walk first? Your faith began with the forgiveness of sins; continue to train yourself with a daily walk in God’s word.