I look back over my life.  From time to time a memory triggers an avalanche.  I can only sigh.  Not one act of beauty can I find.  And if there was anything beautiful, it is tainted by the duress of position or opportunity.

It was either the result of a compulsion to do what is right because of my position in this world, or that I found an opportunity for gain.  Therefore no man is righteous.  And all of his righteous acts are as if filthy rags.

But for the mercy of Christ Jesus’ sacrifice, I would have been among those who are gathered up and tossed without care into the bottomless pit.  No scream to save you.  No pleading to soften the blow.  No anger can touch the one who has judged you rightly.  Down you go, hopeless and destroyed.

As in my days of complete destruction, now there comes upon me days of building and hope.  I had listened to my own advice; directed by avarice and desire.  Now the Lord teaches me to listen and to do.  And I see that what he builds is lasting, good, and full of purpose.

I did not know, but neither did I ask.  There was no reward for the man I used to be.  Death without mercy nor consideration was mine.  I had no defense nor was I likely present justification on my own behalf.  This is the sentence to all who reject the mercy of God in Christ Jesus.

Come and taste that the Lord is good.  All who hunger and thirst for righteousness will be filled.  Such is the promise of God to all men.  He cannot lie and he has sealed his word with the very blood of His Son.