Philippians 1:1-2

Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus,  To all God’s holy people in Christ Jesus at Philippi, together with the overseers and deacons:  Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. - Philippians 1:1-2

Dear Jesus, you moved Paul to write the Philippians and call them holy not because they were sinless but because they believed that you had saved them and declared them righteous.  They believed in you and so they lived in the peace that grace brings.  I live in that peace too.  I know my sins all too well.  So, do my family and friends.  But I am holy by faith in you. By grace you have convinced me that I am free to love without being motivated by guilt or fear.  And frankly, it is amazingly wonderful to live in freedom.  When I fall back into my old way of thinking and reason like someone earning your acceptance, come quickly to rescue me with your redeeming love. Restore me to the joy of being a chosen and loved child of God.  And when I receive criticism from others let me listen with freedom to apply what they say to my life without the stress or worry of failure or appearances.  Oh Jesus, be the Savior of this day for me.

Amen

Pastor Don Patterson

We are a new creation in Christ no matter how broken we were when he found us.