Drop One Hundred Sixty-Three

Titus 3:4-7

“But when the kindness of God our Savior and His love for mankind appeared, He saved us, not on the basis of deeds which we have done in righteousness, but according to His mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit, whom He poured out upon us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that being justified by His grace we would be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.” (NASB1995).

Sunday evening, I felt the way Paul might have felt on the road to Damascus.

I remember as a child being baptized in both the Methodist and later the Lutheran churches. During middle school, I attended and participated in Confirmation classes. I was confirmed Lutheran. I loved church. I memorized the Apostle’s Creed, multiple hymns, enjoyed Sunday School, Vacation Bible School and Sunday morning sermons. I had a good relationship with my pastor and his wife throughout my high school years. Student Life Meetings at our Algebra teacher’s home were one of my favorite nights of the week. I am acclimated to religious teaching. In high school I tinkered with the idea of witchcraft (enjoyed watching “Bewitched”) and found a historical book regarding the subject. When I learned that at its core witches worship the Diana the moon goddess, I no longer tinkered with that idea. Why worship something created when God is the Creator?

I tried to be good. I tried to make the best decisions for my family and myself. I tried to help them understand Christianity but Sunday, September 13, 2026, it all clicked. I have been so wrong. How could I ever explain to others what I have been struggling with for so long? The question and answer that got me was so simple. Suddenly, every worship song, confirmation, baptism, marriage and everything made sense even more than before.

So, are you ready to hear the question and answer? How can one become saved? Repent and accept Jesus. What do you need to repent of? Trusting myself.

Father in Heaven,

Thank You for faithfully waiting for all who are lost, both in and outside the church, to wake up, set aside our pride, and accept You as both Lord and Savior. Thank You for the gift of You perfect love. Any faith we have comes from You. All hope that we have is from You. Outside of the righteousness of Christ, we have no righteousness at all. Forgive us for relying on ourselves or other people for what only You can provide. We pray for open eyes, open hearts and a fresh filling of You Holy Spirit. Help us to walk through life with You. Thank You for loving us beyond measure.

In the name of Jesus we pray,

AMEN