| Daily Devotional for July 9, 2024 Ray is a good friend of mine who lives in Oklahoma. We only talk about twice a year and the conversation always picks up where it left off. Weeks ago, Ray called to check in. He had no idea Shannon had suffered a traumatic brain injury. When I told Ray what had happened, he said, “What can I do to help?” I explained I had fallen far behind on ranch chores. He said, “I’ll be there tomorrow.” Ray spent the next three days on a tractor, shredding what I was unable to get to. Like I said, he’s a good friend. Last week, Ray sent the following text with a picture. The text said, “Just got gifted this coaster. Thought it was a good question for a professional. Been thinking of you. Hope your return to work gives you structure and some sense of normalcy. Happy 4th.” Then I looked at the picture of the coaster. In large red letters it said, “What does it mean if holy water sizzles when it hits your skin? Asking for a friend.” I texted back, “Congratulations. You are going to be a devotional.” Since Ray asked for my professional opinion, I am obliged to respond. While I would not be surprised that holy water sizzles when it hit Ray’s skin, I can also look at his life and see he has made this world a better place for many people. As an attorney, Ray helped people who were lost and without hope. He has made a positive difference. So, back to the holy water question. I suspect holy water would sizzle on anyone’s skin because we are all in the same boat. We are all people who have fallen short of God’s plan for our lives. In fact, I don’t know one person has not sinned against God. But there’s hope. Our hope is not in the good things we do, how we live our lives, or what others think about us. Our hope is in the only One who never sinned and chose to die for us. This is what Paul meant by saying, But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” “(Romans 5:8) Put your trust in the only One who can save you and remember, even though holy water may sizzle, God still loves you. Prayer: Dear Gracious Heavenly God, please forgive my sins. Make me clean and whole. Use me for your purpose. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen. Now that I’ve had some time to think this through, there is one type of person that will always have holy water sizzling. That’s the person who doesn’t believe they have ever sinned. The rest of us broken people know to trust the only One holding the fire extinguisher. That’s what forgiveness and repentance are about. Today, ask God for forgiveness. He loves you. He will forgive. I pray your day is filled with joy and laughter. Tom Robbins |
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Daily Devotionals by Dr. Tom Robbins 