Isaiah 40:1-2

Comfort, comfort my people,
    says your God.
Speak tenderly to Jerusalem,
    and proclaim to her
that her hard service has been completed,
    that her sin has been paid for,
that she has received from the Lord’s hand
    double for all her sins. - Isaiah 40:1-2

Dear Heavenly Father,

When I first saw this passage many years ago I wondered if it meant that you gave double punishment for sins. But I see it means you give double blessings to sinners in your grace. Almost every Bible story bears this out.  You bless the sinners who have committed grievous sins with mercy. Jacob who stole the birthright was blessed.  David who had Uriah killed was forgiven.  Peter was quickly reinstated after denying that he was your friend.  It's what makes you so different than all other gods. Since you are the only real God, this makes since. But I have a secret fear that somehow you will reject me because you know all my sins. Your word assures my anxious heart.  I am forgiven and loved. I will live with my heart open and my chin up today. You are the God who forgives and blesses sinner.  

Amen

Pastor Don Patterson

God is gracious with all sinners.  Some just haven't come to believe it yet.