In Acts 24:25,26, Paul continues speak to the governor, Felix, insisting "men must have right relations with God and his people and a life of moral discipline," and "the coming judgment". Felix felt he had heard enough, that things were getting a little to close for comfort, and he dismissed Paul, saying, "That's enough for today. I'll call you back when it's convenient."
Felix got kind of squirmy, didn't he? That's what happens to us when we draw close to God; we become uncomfortable with ourselves because of our sinful nature. God makes us squirm! But by accepting Jesus' grace and forgiveness we can sit still again and listen, accepting the love and grace we are offered. If we're continue to squirm or excuse ourselves, we're not ready to accept Christ and all he offers. This means we must pray again for God to ready us and for ourselves to accept all that Jesus has to give us.
God, Help us to keep in mind that people don't always "feel" ready to accept Jesus due to the "squirming" that goes on within us. Help us all to see our "squirming" as a part of the process of acceptance of who we are. And when we do start to squirm, Lord, let us see it as our own reluctance to accept that which is difficult to hear. Amen.
My friends, you and I are human and imperfect. Only through the grace of our Lord shall we ever become perfected. But, we are forgiven!
Jo INMN
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