A Second Chance

My supervising professor was furious. I had written a paper on the now defunct Organization of African Unity (O.A.U.) without referring to its accompanying charter. She concluded by stating that I had to write the paper again, and, this time, read the body of laws that make up its Charter. As I left the building, I was glad that she had given me a second chance.

I remember my enthusiasm years back as a new believer in the Lord Jesus. I served fervently, not missing any gathering of Christians: prayer meetings, night vigils, fellowships, singing in the church. I soon was called to hold a youth leadership position. At a point in time, I lost focus on the vision, and drew back from church activities. As time elapsed, I realized I was out of place, and had to return to my "first love". I began to serve the Lord as before, and soon was called into two leadership positions in a totally different geographical location, here in Rotterdam. That day, as I walked out of the church building, I felt God saying, "Now you have a second chance."

The whole episode evokes a flashback to the Garden of Eden scene. God gave instructions to our first parents, Adam and Eve, not to eat from one particular tree in the garden. They disobeyed, and were cast out of the garden. Their biggest loss was the communion and fellowship they had enjoyed with God. Sin had entered the world through the first Adam. Fast-forward to many generations later, and Jesus, the second Adam, has come to reconcile man and God. The one hanging on the cross, crying out, "It is finished," has now risen from the dead, proving that His work, the purpose for which He came, has been completed. We now have forgiveness of sins and salvation. God is saying to mankind, "Now you have a second chance to enjoy communion and fellowship with Me."

John 3:16 – For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. (KJV)

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of the Lord Jesus Christ through whom we have salvation. Grant us the grace to focus on You even in these trying times. In Jesus' name. Amen.