a simple truth

I struggle to try and understand all that the gospel envelopes. Against all expectation, it has not become more complicated to me, but more simple. It's always been simple. Of course, my human mind will never be able to fully grasp all that it means. Jesus has given up everything for me, and I will never be able to repay that. Regardless of my efforts, I will never make Him love me more and He will never love me less. He gave His life for me knowing I would never be able to pay Him back. 

Still my mind says, Why would I give up my time, money, and efforts? Why would I continue to work with children and people who will never repay me? Why do I continue to walk this way after everyone else doubts His goodness? Why would I give anymore?

And He tells me, "Because I did it first." 

He gave it all, fully knowing that I can never pay that back. So I venture back to the place where need overwhelms me, and I will continue to give. Because He gave for me. As another hurts me, I will forgive. Because He forgave me. As another tests my patience, I will continue to be patient. Because He's been so patient with me. And as I teach lessons, I will learn them. Because He continues to teach me. I will walk with others because He's walked with me. I will hold hands and hearts as long as they need- because He's held mine. I did nothing to deserve what Jesus did for me, but if I do nothing in response to what Jesus has done for me, how can I say I understand what He's done? 

"All I can try to do for others is that which Jesus has done for me."