«For when we were still without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly» (Romans 5:6).
A couple of years ago, my sister and I visited St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. It’s really impressive! In addition to being a work of art architecturally speaking, it is decorated with mosaics, sculptures, and paintings that cover every corner of the building. It is impossible to visit it and not be amazed by its beauty and opulence. However, behind this magnificent building is a very sad story. The construction of St. Peter’s Basilica took more than a hundred years and required a lot of money. To cover the expenses, Pope Leo X proclaimed a great sale of indulgences in 1514 and 1516. Indulgences were a kind of «forgiveness coupon» issued by the Pope. Through a payment, Catholic believers could receive forgiveness for their present and future sins—or that of their relatives, living or dead. As Protestant women of the 21st century, this chapter of history is likely to fill us with righteous indignation; however, we often act as if our good behavior were the price for obtaining «forgiveness coupons.»
Do you believe with all your heart that God loves you unconditionally and forgives you through sheer grace? On days when you sin or are wrong, can you look up at heaven and, without fear of being condemned, say, «Dad, I need you»?
In Uninvited, Christian writer Lysa TerKeurst reflected, «Imagine how differently you could approach each day if you said: God is good. God is good to me. . . Today is another page of our great love story. Nothing that happens today will change that or alter it in the least.» God loves you! Not because of what you do; not because of your achievements. Not even for what you can do to advance His cause. God loves you because you are His daughter, and you bear His image. Nothing, ever, ever, can change that!
Dear Lord, my good behavior will never buy Your love, and my sins will never drown it.
You love me and forgive me unconditionally because I am Your daughter.
The price of forgiveness has already been paid on the cross and there is credit left over to cover the debt of my sins. Today I can run into Your arms without fear!
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Take From: Devotional Thoughts for Women 2022
«NO FEARS»
BY: VANEZA PISSUTO
Collaborators: Alexandra Pérez & Angelica Cuate.
