23 for fall have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24 and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, ~ Romans 3:23-24

I had the privilege of hearing Dr. Stephen Olford in person when I was in Bible College. He was a pastor who influenced many men, including Charles Stanley and Adrian Rogers. In his book The Grace of Giving, he tells the story of a Baptist pastor, Peter Miller, who lived during the American Revolution. 

One day, a man named Michael Wittman, who did everything he could to humiliate Miller, was arrested for treason and sentenced to death. Miller travels 70 miles on foot to plead for the life of the traitor. Olford explains:

“No, Peter,” General Washington said, “I cannot grant you the life of your friend.”
“My friend!” exclaimed the old preacher. “He’s the bitterest enemy I have.”
“What?” exclaimed Washington. “You’ve walked seventy miles to save the life of an enemy?
That puts the matter in a different light. I’ll grant your pardon.” And he did.
Peter Miller took Michael Wittman back home to Ephrata—no longer an enemy but a friend.

What can we learn from that story? May I suggest that it is an inspiring illustration of grace and forgiveness that emerged from his understanding of God’s sacrifice for humanity. Because God forgave him and offered His Son for him, he discovered the grace to make sacrifices for his enemy. While many of us recognize the greatness of God’s grace and love towards us, it’s essential to remember that His love is unfailing—even in our moments of failure!

Yet another challenge for you and me today to contemplate. Being assured of His grace and quickness to forgive us, go into this day knowing that though I seek to make it a perfect day, even if it doesn’t pan out the way I hope it will, I can always know that “Even if I blow it today, my God still loves me!”

Blessings on your journey,

Gene