Lured by Acceptance

It began one night many years ago.  I was the new kid, invited by a friend.  We were playing games, separated on four teams.  "That looks easy. I'll win, for sure," I thought.  I was the first one on my team to play.  The players were to run around the circle and into the middle to win points.

The whistle blew and I ran.  Before I knew it, they were awarding points for first and second place to two other people; I was last!

Uh-oh.  I dreaded walking back to my team.  The team with the most points would go home with a reward. I had earned none for my team; now no one would like me.

I was confident that I would hear, "Loser!"   Or "why does she have to be on our team!"

Instead I heard different words. "Good job!"

What did I just hear? Yes, he said it again.  My team leader had said, 'Good job!'  None of the kids rejected me either.  I was welcomed back to the team.  Then the leader turned and began to cheer for the next player.

Even more than being astonished that I came in last, I was shocked that they told me good job when I didn't win. 

The lure had begun. Two simple words embodied acceptance not based on performance. Two simple words breathed life. They spoke loudly to my seeking heart.

It was that acceptance that drew me to Christ. And it is that acceptance not based on my performance that keeps drawing me back in again.

I often stray. I want to perform. I want to do good for Him.  I want to be the best in my flesh. I don't revel in boasting in my insults, in my weaknesses, that in me the only good is Christ. The old me doesn't really like that. No, not at all.

But once again when I am a puddle on the floor, fully aware of my desperate need. Then I am ever so grateful again to be drawn by that amazing merciful acceptance not based on my horrible performance.

I am accepted before the foundation of the world. Not by works of righteousness that I have done but according to His great mercy, He saved me.

And He breathes life again.

I am accepted. We are all accepted based on His performance, not yours. Not mine. But His.

May we all breathe deeply of His life breathing Words.

May you find life, grace, and refreshment in Him,
Kathleen

What about you, do you have a story of when you were lured by Acceptance?

Linking up with Jen at the SDG Sisterhood. Click on over for more great reading.


Linking up with Rachel at Home Sanctuary.