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For the Grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men."

Titus 2:11 KJV

Visiting with a friend after a meeting, we chatted as we approached our cars and she left.

My first thought was to pull forward. The owner had reworked the parking area. Since it was dark; the lighting wasn't good, I decided to back up a little to check for obstructions. A second time I hesitated, considering going forward. I continued back. Suddenly I felt a bump. I thought someone had hit me. In reality, I had backed in to another friend's van.

Sitting there in shock, alone and in a dim lit parking lot panic arose. I got out to survey the damage and at first saw none. As I looked a little closer I could see I had put a good size scratch on the bumper.

My heart sank, but I knew what I would have to do. So I went back in and found the owner of the Van. After taking another look, we agreed that she would go home and see if the scratches could be buffed. If not, I would pay for the damage. With a smile and a hug of encouragement, she said not to worry.

I was guilty, plain and simple. Yet, my friend had shown compassion and grace towards me in Christian love. Though I was guilty, I was forgiven.

So it was when Christ went to the cross. He paid the debt for us. We were guilty of sin and the punishment should have been ours, yet His grace was sufficient for us. The judgment was guilty, yet pardoned and set free.

His blessed grace forgives, forgets and delivers! When others see our weaknesses, God sees His grace working in and through us.

Copyright © 2003 Marie Williams