Until we realize how much of a wretch we are, so fallen in nature and inclined to sin, we really cannot appreciate the extent of our Lord's Grace. I think true repentance can only be achieved when we come to acknowledge this about ourselves.

I was in the closet busily gathering up clothes, shoes, and accessories to donate in charity. Yes, it was for charity. But I was doing this in charity for our Lord. Or so I thought. Afterwards, I realized that I had sorted through my things and had selected mostly the expensive designer brand items to give away. It was then that the Lord convicted me. I found myself totally ashamed.

In dismay I went to tell my husband. He looked at me not surprised which made me feel worse. "But I already knew that your intentions were probably not all pure. If I were to guess I suppose your effort was about 90% in charity." I was devastated. "But how could you love me knowing that!" I cried. "Because I know you... who you are.. and that 90% is pretty wonderful." I looked at him chagrined and then my mind went back to the endeavor that had started out with such good intentions.

He seemed to read my thoughts. "But the Lord knows you far better than me. He knows if it was 10% or 20% percent that was not done purely for Him. He knows the exact amounts and the exact details of all of our intentions." He paused and I could see him getting choked up. "I think the moving thing is that by His standard we all fail so many times, but He still loves us so much. It really is the greatest love story."

I found tears start to stream down my face at his words as I contemplated that our Lord, perfect in righteousness and goodness, could love a wretch like me. I was overcome with such gratitude. I found myself wanting to feel worthy of such a gift.

I walked into the bathroom and closed the door behind me.. to ask Him for forgiveness for my transgression... to ask Him to help me to become more like Him. Holy, holy is He who is our blessed Lord and Savior!