Daily Devotional for May 27, 2021

Yesterday, as I walked through the reception area of Dennis Hall, the phone rang.  Laura, the volunteer staff babysitter answered with, “Hello, this is the First Presbyterian Church of Temple, may I help you?”

At that moment I started to have a heart attack, as Laura said into the phone, “Oh no.  He’s right here.  I’m so embarrassed.”

I don’t know who Laura was talking to, but I could tell it was someone who knew Laura had committed the unforgivable sin.

I immediately went back to my office and pulled out the Book of Discipline to start the process of Laura’s excommunication. 

It’s really too bad.  I like Laura but there are some sins that are so bad, there is no forgiveness.  Her’s is at the top of the list.

But just to be doubly sure I was doing the right thing, after calling the police, the national guard, the bishop, the pope, and the CEO of Popeye’s Chicken, I checked the Bible.  That’s when I was sorely disappointed.

There is only one unforgivable sin and it’s not answering the phone for the wrong denomination.

Jesus taught there was one unforgivable sin.  He said,  “Therefore I tell you, people will be forgiven for every sin and blasphemy, but blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven.  Whoever speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but whoever speaks against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven, either in this age or in the age to come.” (Matthew 12:31-32) 

Blasphemy against the Holy Spirit is not blasphemy in the sense of turning God’s name into a cuss word.  It is refusing to be in relationship with the only One who gives grace, forgiveness, freedom, and peace. 

While Laura did an absolutely terrible thing, I do know she has a loving relationship with God.  So, technically, she hasn’t committed the unforgivable sin – but it’s close.

Just know if you accept the gift of God’s love and grace, then you are forgiven, made whole, and clean.  Your sins will no longer have a hold on you, and you will be a new creation in Christ. It’s that simple.

Prayer:  Dear Gracious Heavenly God, help me accept your gift which I cannot earn, deserve, or merit.   Help me draw closer to you.  In Jesus’ name I pray.  Amen.

Have a relationship with God and go to heaven.  It’s a good deal.

Also, just for the record, I realize that if I excommunicated Laura, then David may not come to church anymore.  I really like him so I will drop the excommunication – this time. 

I pray your day is filled with joy and laughter.
Tom Robbins