I was formerly a blasphemer, a persecutor and a man of violence. But I received mercy. I Timothy 1:13

Two authors of these two verses for today, both in similar circumstances. They had a past – and it wasn’t a life of perfection. Isaiah is responding to God’s presence in a vision he sees. Since the belief was that seeing God would lead to death, he is more than a little worried as he thinks he is totally unworthy to be in God’s presence. He refers to himself as a man of unclean lips, living among people who also have unclean lips. That refers to using words to harm others, or to gain power, or to use God’s name in vain. As Isaiah states this, God sends an angel, with a piece hot coal from the altar, to touch his lips and make him clean. He can now embark on his prophetic mission as God leads him.

In first Timorthy, Paul too recalls his past life of persecuting the new Christians, of using violence against them. We remember that he had a vision on the road to Damascus, with Jesus asking why he was persecuting Him. That was followed by three days of blindness, followed by redemption and healing. Paul then embarks upon his mission – travels among many people spreading the Good News of Jesus Christ.

We may feel that we have not lived a good enough life to be able to share the Good News as these two men did. We have probably managed to have unclean lips at times, to have persecuted others by being judgmental, maybe even had thoughts of violence. Does this matter to our ability to listen to God? To be a blessing to others? If not for God’s grace in forgiving us and burning away our sins, it would be a problem. However, we do experience forgiveness as we confess our sins, and God washes away our sin. Then we too can spread this wonderful news among our friends and neighbors near and far.

Savior, we come humbly seeking your mercy. We have been unclean; we have blasphemed; we have not served you as we should—yet you still redeem us. You have restored our souls and turned our hearts toward you. Thank you. As we believe in your love and grace, help us extend mercy and forgiveness to others. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Chris Gabel

Ministries
Teaching Mission Party