Our God of Second Chances

So,  what was your New Year’s Resolution for 2012?  Too far back?  How about 2020?  What Resolutions did you make for that year?  If you do remember it might be because your resolutions are the same every year. : )

That’s probably not a fair assessment.  But… How many of you can tell me what your New Year’s Resolution was in 2022?

The blog today is for all who may have dropped the ball not too long after the ball has dropped in Times Square.  New Years are exciting.  And, we naturally look into the future with renewed hope and anticipation. 

So, if you have succeeded in your New Years Resolutions over the years, you are to be congratulated.  But, for a lot of people, we have kind of missed the mark. 

When you miss the mark with God there is something that makes all the difference.  There is redemption.  There are second chances with God.  He is OUR God of Second Chances. 

This is a recurring and powerful motif throughout the Bible, demonstrating God’s grace, mercy, and willingness to restore and redeem those who have failed or strayed. It is evident, from the Old Testament to the New Testament, God repeatedly offers individuals and entire nations opportunities to start anew despite their past mistakes.

A strong and powerful story that touches the depths of our hearts is the story that Jesus tells of the Prodigal Son.  In this parable, Jesus tells of a young man who squanders his inheritance in reckless living. When he hits rock bottom, he realizes his mistake and returns to his father.

Luke 15:19-24  ¹⁹ I am no longer worthy to be called your son; make me like one of your hired servants.’ 

“But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.

²¹ “The son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’

²² “But the father said to his servants, ‘Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. ²³  Let’s have a feast and celebrate. ²⁴ For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ So they began to celebrate.

• God’s Grace is Abundant: No failure is beyond God’s forgiveness.  So, breaking a New Year’s Resolution is not a sin.  But, we know that, with God, there is always another chance.  He forgives us and is willing to walk with us, picking us up and helping us to move on.
• Restoration Reflects God’s Love: Every second chance is an expression of God’s unconditional love and desire for reconciliation.  God’s desire for restoration is a profound demonstration of His love because it reveals His commitment to redeem, heal, and reconcile us to Himself. In spite of our failures, rebellion, and brokenness.

Isn’t it great to have a God of Second Chances?  So, from where ever you are, Look Up!  You can grab hold of this New Year knowing that God is with you and he desires the very best for you.  Jesus came that we might have life and have it abundantly!

Have a Blessed New Year!

Larry