Margaret is so intelligent; she knows both where Jimmy Hoffa’s body is buried and who shot JFK. I’m a little afraid of her.
Adrian is one of the best writers I have ever met but she has my type of sense of humor. I’m a little afraid of her.
Last week, I got the following email from Margaret, entitled Pastor Appreciation Month. This is what she said: “This gift is from Adrian and me. It is your pastor appreciation gift for this year, next year and maybe forever. We have finally decided that the only way a daily devotional publication is ever going to become a reality is for us to make it happen. Billie Jenkins, a former church secretary had a saying, “if it is to be, it is up to me.” We will be working closely with you, so get ready.”
To atone for their many sins, Margaret and Adrian have decided to compile over six years of daily devotionals into a book. I am certain the process of reading all those devotionals may lead to depression and a and mild drinking problem but apparently, they are willing to take the risk.
As I read Margaret’s email, I had two initial reactions. On the one hand, I was overjoyed these two women were willing to use their extensive gifts to help me carry out one of my life’s goals that has gotten completely out of reach due to my limited time and intelligence.
At the same time, I felt a wave of panic. How could I accept such a wonderful offer? I didn’t earn, merit, or deserve this extraordinary gift. Then it hit me. It’s the exact same thing with God.
We don’t earn, merit, or deserve God’s grace. It’s a gift. The only thing we can do is accept what cannot be earned, merited, or deserved. There is no other way.
This is what Paul meant by saying, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.” (Ephesians 2:8)
Our salvation is a gift to be accepted and cherished. That’s a good thing.
Prayer: Dear Gracious Heavenly God, thank you for loving me in spite of my infinite flaws. Help me accept and live in response to what I cannot earn. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
Just like God’s love, the only thing I can do is accept Margaret and Adrian’s wonderful gift of love.
So accept God’s gift and become the person God created you to be.
One more thing. I am going to talk to Margaret and Adrian about putting my picture on the cover of the book. That will make it a best seller. I wonder what they will say?
I pray your day is filled with joy and laughter.
Tom Robbins
Daily Devotionals by Dr. Tom Robbins 