Before and After

“At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life. This is a trustworthy saying. And I want you to stress these things, so that those who have trusted in God may be careful to devote themselves to doing what is good. These things are excellent and profitable for everyone.” (Titus 3:3-8)

The apostle Paul had quite a before-and-after story. He had been the sworn enemy of Jesus. He persecuted Christians, even putting some to death. Paul was “foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures.”

But that was the “before” part. The kindness and love of God our Savior appeared to Paul. Literally. Jesus appeared to Paul. Why? All because of God’s mercy. Paul was baptized, and his life was totally changed. Jesus sent him out into the world to share the gospel with as many people as possible. 

You have quite a before-and-after story too. Maybe it’s not as dramatic as Paul’s, but it’s meant to be just as life-changing. When you were at your sinful worst, Jesus saved you by his mercy. He welcomed you into his family through Baptism, and he poured his Holy Spirit onto your heart. 

So what’s the “after” for you? Here’s what God wants it to look like: “So that those who have trusted in God may be careful to devote themselves to doing what is good.”

God’s kindness and mercy motivate our good works. Devote yourself to doing what is good, not to earn God’s mercy, but because you have God’s mercy. Devote yourself to doing what is good, not to become God’s child, but because you are God’s child. Devote yourself to doing what is good, not to be saved, but because you are saved by God’s grace through faith in Jesus. 

You know the “before.” You believe what Jesus has done for you. What’s the “after” for you?

Dear God, you change our lives with your kindness and mercy. As you enable us to grow in our faith in Jesus and his salvation, empower us to grow in devoting our lives to you and your glory. Amen.

Pastor Nathan