Grace

In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents. – Luke 15:10

I recently read a post on Facebook that perfectly explained grace. It goes as follows:

“The apostle Paul entered Heaven to the cheers of those he martyred. That’s how the Gospel works.”

I had to re-read it several times and let it soak into my mind. I thought of Steven who was stoned while Paul looked on in approval and of the many believers that were imprisoned and tortured because Paul sought to destroy The Way.

Following Jesus’ example, while they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.”   Then he fell on his knees and cried out, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” When he said this, he fell asleep. Acts 7:59-60

To think that those same martyrs welcomed Paul into heaven speaks of the incredible grace that God has given to us. Being in the presence of the Lord they did not seek revenge or cast stones, but rather they were overjoyed that Paul’s life had been changed. He now was a fellow martyr, but more importantly, he had experienced the grace of God.

Emmanuel is God with us. This season is a beautiful reminder that we have been given grace and in turn, we are to offer that same grace to others. We have the privilege of cheering both in this life and in the next for each sinner who repents, because that’s how the Gospel works.