Tuesday, September 1, 2026

Scripture

“As I live, says the Lord God, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but that the wicked turn from their ways and live.” Ezekiel 33:11

Reflections

Some people think that God takes delight in condemning people to hell.  That couldn’t be farther from the truth.  He’s gone to great extremes to try to keep us from bringing about our own destruction.

God sent the prophets to warn people of where their lives were headed.  The people didn’t want to listen.  They continued in the direction they were headed.  Time and time again, they lived the consequences of their choices.

God then came in Jesus to show the people a better way.  Instead of bringing about their own destruction, they could be about the business of brining life and hope and healing to the world.  They could join Jesus in his mission.  Even in his death, we see how God’s love for us never ends, no matter how much we’re consumed by evil.

If we’re honest with ourselves, we see how our own self-serving ways lead to nothing good.  At times we can be literally hell-bent on bringing ruin upon ourselves.  Jesus offers us a better way.  Everyone who turns to God is given the opportunity for a clean slate.  It’s never too late to turn to him.  God can wipe the shame and guilt from our past and bring about a new tomorrow.

God loves us more than we can imagine.  Turn to him and live.

Prayer

Lord God, thank you for giving me the opportunity to turn to you and live.  Help me to call others to that same life.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Full Reading: Ezekiel 33:7-11