Timeline of the Apostle Paul’s growth in grace:
AD 53 – “I am the least of the apostles and don’t even deserve to be called an apostle…” (1Cor15:9)
AD 62 – “I am least deserving of all God’s people…” (Eph.3:8)
AD 65 – “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst.” (1Tim.1:15)
Lord Jesus, thank you for coming into the world to save sinners—to redeem people like me who are dead in their sins and equally dead to the riches of God’s grace. People like me who need a righteousness we could never earn but desperately need. People like me—created to love God with everything we have and are, but who have no desire or hope of doing so apart from your work for us and in us.
This makes me a part of the most inclusive group in all of history and humanity. We all qualify for your saving grace and may freely receive “grace upon grace” (Jn.1:16) all the way Home. What we could never do for ourselves, you have done for us, Jesus. Hallelujah and thank you!
And as reflected in the life of the Apostle Paul, a sign we’re growing spiritually will be reflected in coming more alive to our need of your grace—our need of you, Jesus. As Paul aged, you became more precious and real to him. He didn’t backslide; he front-slid into more of your grace—into more of you.
Paul became less defensive and less likely to blame others, more humble in life and more grateful for you. He repented quicker and loved you more. Us too, Jesus—we want to “front-slide” into more of you and your grace all the way Home. So, reveal more of yourself to each of us, Jesus—more of your truth, goodness, and beauty. That’s the primary way we grow in grace. That’s what we want, Jesus, all the way Home. So Very Amen.
