I'm a Big Fat Sinner

Well today I was reminded once again how much of a "Big Fat Sinner" I am. I was on my way to Home Depot and made an improper right hand turn on the shoulder and because of my mistake, (which by the way, I didn't know was illegal) got a nice, lovely, ticket.

I argued my point to the officer that first of all I didn't know I couldn't turn from the shoulder, and that it is not marked properly. Unfortunately that didn't matter. He said I had not followed the "law" and thus I got a ticket. I fussed about grace to him and asked him to give me a warning, pleading that I was a good driver. Unfortunately it was to no avail. I think I actually ticked him off because in my frustration and anger I accused him of padding the pockets of the city and just trying to get his quota. Sometimes my anger gets the best of me and I start shooting off my mouth with every excuse as to why I shouldn't get the "punishment." But, I have to be honest, I was in the wrong and now I have to pay for it.

Even though there was intense fellowship between us (btw, he was a Youth Pastor I found out), his point was the law was broken, now I have to pay the consequences. Let's be honest, I didn't like that response.

What happened to me makes me realize that one day when we get to heaven there will be judgment for our lives. According to whether we know Jesus or not we will have to pay for our sins. It also reminded me that even though I know Jesus, I am still a Big Fat Sinner. I make mistakes daily and it is my responsibility to not make excuses for those mistakes, but to learn to admit those mistakes and pay for them. Some payments are more painful than others. The one for my ticket will be painful in my wallet, but there are other painful consequences to not following God's Law.

There are losses of relationships, because we don't admit our mistakes and ask for forgiveness. There are losses of finances when we make unwise business decisions. There are losses of friends when we walk away from the God given responsibilities we have.

We have hope though! If we are Christ-followers, we must admit that we are continually Big Fat Sinners that are saved by the Grace of God. Recognizing our weakness should propel us to do something about it. We must depend daily on the only strength that can get us through. That strength is the strength of Jesus.

Maybe today you were reminded you are a Big Fat Sinner. Turn from your mistakes and ask forgiveness yet be prepared to pay for your mistakes. Be the responsible Christ-follower He has called you to be. Seek the grace that is only offered in Jesus!