Caught by Grace: The Gifts I Never Could Have Given Myself

Morning watch - 6.7.25 -4:13 am

As I was reading this morning something about Acts 5:31 and 11:18 - the idea that repentance and forgiveness aren't things I can manufacture on my own, but are actually gifts from Jesus Christ himself.

As I was reading , I saw this beautiful picture of Christ being lifted up as both our Leader and Savior. It's in this exalted position that He has the authority and power to give us what we desperately need but could never produce ourselves.

I have to be honest - if I really examine my heart, I know I wouldn't have turned away from my sin if God hadn't somehow drawn me to Himself first. The very fact that I even want to repent, that I feel conviction about my wrongdoing, that's not something that originated from me. It's a gift. Christ, in His role as our Leader, creates that turning in our hearts. He's the one who opens our eyes to see our need.

And then there's forgiveness - the incredible relief and freedom that comes after repentance. That's not something I could earn or deserve. It flows from Christ's work as our Savior, from what He accomplished through His sacrifice. The forgiveness I experience is a direct result of His redemption.

What amazes me is that in this entire universe, Jesus is uniquely qualified to offer these gifts. No other person, no other power, no other religion can truly give someone a repentant heart or genuine forgiveness. Only Christ has both the authority and the ability.

Sometimes I think about how I've been "caught" by Jesus - and I mean that in the most wonderful way. Like being caught in a net of love and grace. Without that divine capture, I would have just kept going my own way, blind to my need for Him.

I'm so grateful tonight for these twin gifts - repentance that turns my heart toward God, and forgiveness that washes away my guilt. Both are treasures I could never have given myself.

Thank You, Lord, for being the only One qualified to transform hearts and forgive sins. Thank You for choosing to give these gifts to me.