By Clay Collins, MSG Chaplain
207 837-0564
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God sent the Son into the world, not to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through him He who believes in Him is not condemned; he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God.”
John 3:16-18
Another month has come and gone along with the blistering cold weather of winter (we hope!). We look forward to April and the warmer weather that Spring brings. We should, also, be looking forward to Easter, and the resurrection of the Lord Jesus.
In last month’s column, I mentioned that God had a plan for Jesus (and us!), and that it is a wonderful plan. This month we have a chance to “witness” this remarkable plan, the resurrection of Jesus.
The resurrection is only part of the story! We must not forget the amount of suffering Jesus went through, the abandonment by His friends, the denial, the “trial”, and finally, the crucifixion.
Not only did Jesus suffer on the cross, but His friends suffered, also. In spite of all that He went through; the pain, and humiliation, He did not condemn His accusers and abusers, but instead, He asked forgiveness from the Father, stating, “They know not what they do.”
We should take a page from that “book”. Forgive those who persecute, and ridicule us; for they do not know what they do. If they ridicule us, they do not really know us. Forgive them as Jesus did.
Remember, God loves us all!!
Happy Easter, and happy Spring!
Until the next time, remember, “Be well, do good work, and keep in touch.”
Benediction: “Gracious Father of us all, help us to remember the teachings of Jesus, especially when He was on the cross. Help us to forgive. Amen.”
Thought for the month:
May your neighbors respect you, troubles neglect you, the angels protect you, and Heaven accept you.
An Irish Blessing for Health and Prosperity