8th January

Even though I (Paul) was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man, I was shown mercy because I acted in ignorance and unbelief. Her is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinner - of whom I am the worst. 1 Timothy 1, 13 & 15

We must be born again

Roddy committed a crime and therefore was condamned to prison and sentenced for life. After seventeen years of imprisonment a request for anticipated release was made. The chaplain had to testify at the court of justice. He testified in favour of the prisoner.

The judge asks: "Why do you want this man to be released?"

The chaplain answers: "Because God has come into his life and changed him."

What do you mean by? "God has come into his life."

Earlier he only was counting on human justice. In the meantime he has understood that he also has to give an account of his deeds to God. His guilt before God was heavier than his guilt before society. Can God forgive him his crimes? Yes, because Roddy has accepted the salvation which Jesus has paid. He has become a new man.

A last question: "If he is released would you accept him as your neighbour?"

The chaplain answered: "Not only as my neighbour but also as my brother."

Roddy was released. After he lived to serve the Lord and to testify of what the grace of God can do in the bad heart of man.

"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!" (2 Corinthians 5, 17).