Friday, June 8th

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One thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. - Philippians 3:13-14

Dear Jesus, sometimes I think that Satan, that great accuser, should be called the god of the past. How quickly a quiet moment of reflection on great moments in my life can be interrupted with reminders of mistakes and moral failures. It's like he is the big memory spoiler.  I need help remembering that you have redeemed me from the past.  Every one of those sins has been forgiven and in your presence I have peace about the past.  Now I am free to look forward to the rest of my life with purpose.  So, Jesus keep my eyes on the present and future opportunity to love you and people with all my heart. Keep me from looking over my shoulder in guilt or shame. Turn my head in freedom toward the wonderful challenge to live a God-pleasing life.  I want to run my race not to overcome my past or my neighbor but to overcome myself with your redeeming grace.  AMEN

If Jesus really did for me what he says he did, then I have all I need to live in peace with purpose.

Additional Readings: 1 Corinthians 9:19-23, 2 Corinthians 5:11-21