Made by Sinners

."I'd never belong to a church with people like THAT!" the woman said to her husband. He'd turned to her with a nod of agreement. This took place many years ago at a church I once attended. I never forgot the cutting words.     

I did't know the couple, who they were talking about, or why they were upset. However, it bothered me that they'd judged others so harshly. Who were they to judge? But, then, who was I to judge them? 

We're human. It's hard not to judge.   

I couldn't help but imagine a scenario about the couple (I'll call them Mr. and Mrs. Homer). What if they knew the truth about the people they associated with on a regular basis? For example, what would they think if their handyman had a prison record? If their favorite waitress, a single mother, moonlighted as a stripper to make ends meet? If their medical doctor of many years was cheating on his wife? Or, if their neighbor, with whom they'd become friends, was gossiping about them?   

If we all had a sign pinned to our backs revealing our sins, we'd all look pretty bad, wouldn't we? And Mr. and Mrs. Homer would have a sign pinned to their backs, too. No one would be immune.  

Most everyone, at some time in their life, has provided a product or service that others need. Someone needs to grow the food, manufacture the goods, and provide the things we need to live and thrive. We need each other. No one can be truly self-sufficient. With talents, gifts, and abilities, we do the best job we can, but yet, we are still imperfect and subject to sin.        

So, everything that is not God-made in our world is "made by sinners." It sounds bad, but its true. However, we have a God who loves us, despite our imperfections. He patiently awaits our coming to Him with repentant hearts, seeking forgiveness.  

Scripture in Isaiah 1:18 exemplifies God's forgiveness: "Come, now, let us settle the matter," says the Lord. "Though your sins are like scarlett, they shall be as white as snow. Though they are red as crismon, they shall be as wool."    

"Made by sinners." Maybe so. But, "Forgiven by God." Definitely, yes. ​