The One That Got Away

Psalm 51:7 – Remove my sin, and I will be clean; wash me and I will be whiter than snow. (GNB)

I grew up in a small town situated close to the Thames River, in southern Ontario, Canada. From March 15 to April 15 every year, the river is designated as a nature reserve. This is to allow hundreds of pickerel a chance to travel upstream to spawn. But once the 16th of April arrives, if the conditions are right, many fishermen can be found casting from shore, or trolling from boats.

I spent many evenings on that river with my Dad. We would head to the river when I got home from school, and sometimes stay until dark. It is a peaceful time in my life that I will always remember.

I will also remember one fish in particular. Although pickerel don't put up a big fight, it is always a thrill to land a fish. I reeled in the fish that was weighing down my line, and Dad scooped it out of the water with the landing net. He then held it to remove the hook, and reached for the stringer to add it to our catch. With a flick of its tail, that fish squirmed out of my Dad's hand and over the side of the boat. Gone! After a quiet moment, I said, "I bet that won't happen again."

We can be set free of our sins as easily as that fish was freed. All who believe in Christ are washed clean.

Romans 3:24 – But by the free gift of God's grace all are put right with him through Christ Jesus, who sets them free. (GNB)

It is only through Jesus Christ that we are freed.

Prayer: God in heaven, You sent Your Son to earth for us. Through His death and resurrection, we are washed clean. In Him, we are set free. Help us to receive Your gift of grace as freely as is it given. In Jesus' name. Amen.

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