The Gospel is both our foundation and motivation.

Sometimes when I hear a sermon, I think —

“How could I ever live up to this?  Why would I even want to do this?  What am I doing this for?”

I try to catch up.  It feels good on good days, when I’m a nice guy and praying hard and staying clean.  But on bad days: my quota comes up short.  I’m horrified at my utter lack of conviction.  I come up with rules to follow rules, sharpen my prayer-technique, throw lighter-fluid on my computer, buy a wardrobe for a homeless guy.

It doesn’t work.  None of this brings me any intimacy with God.  It only selfishly points at myself, and I get self-righteous or scared or a sloppy mix of both.

But then — the Gospel is preached.  I’m reminded that Jesus died for all the ways I’ve failed, and his resurrection empowers me for a way forward.  I’m reminded that I was never meant to live up to anything, but I’ve received the Spirit that breathes His life through me.

So I know how.  By his grace.

I know why.  Because of grace.

I know what for.  For Him.

Continue reading “Grace: Jesus: Forgiveness: Foundation: Forward” →