Not Out Yet...

I posted a music video on a social media group page the other day, and while I missed some of the initial comments that followed, from the ones that remained ( I think a few got deleted, it seems), I could pick up that they were talking about when leaders or influencers have a moral failure. For the specifics of this post, they were talking about the band that I posted and the lead vocalist who had fallen.

But among the comments that followed, was one's opinion of how leadership needs to be held to a higher standard (which I agree with) and how they have but one shot in ministry. And that kind of troubled me. As if there is no room for grace. And even less room for restoration.

As I reflected on that mindset, I couldn't help but think of the leaders found in Scripture. If there is no grace, Samson doesn't get one last request to be used to display God's power. David's reign should be over after Bathsheba. Yes, there were great consequences, but today's political climate would require is immediate removal from office. Jonah dies in the fish if his heart does not change. Moses... pick a spot in his story where it should end earlier than it does.

Then there's Peter. Talk about a guy who shouldn't have gotten a second change a ministry. "Deny me before men and I will deny your before my Father in Heaven." Sorry, Peter. GAME OVER.

And yet, grace enters the picture and the process of restoration takes place. And Peter is never the same and obviously, the world is forever changed.

Even today, we discount ourselves and others from ever being eligible for a second chance. There will always be consequences; but God specializes in making beauty from ashes. Even when the ashes are our own doing... or undoing as the case may exist.

So, pray this #seniorPastorMonday, for those struggling with the failures and mistakes that feel as though they are disqualified. May the Holy Spirit minister to them anew and afresh. Pray for those who dealing with actual consequences and difficult challenges that have threatened their position and influence within the church and community. Prayer for a spirit of repentance and humility; of brokenness before God. May their not be a hardness of heart, but a pouring out of the soul in order that God may work the miraculous. Pray for churches that are going through a healing process as well as the pastors and families that are going through a process of restoration. May grace abound, truth prevail and love conquer all.

For salvation itself is a second chance
As is sanctification as we are refined
By the power of God
And the work of the Holy Spirit.

- PNC