Last Saturday an anniversary passed, unnoticed, I’m sure. On March 8, 1782 Ohio militiamen massacred 90 Indians who had been converted to Christianity. The massacre was in retaliation for raids by other Indians, not by these new converts.
How many people throughout history have rejected Jesus Christ because of what they’ve seen so-called Christians do?
Ironically, the attack occurred near a town called Gnadenhutten, a word that means “shelters of grace.” “Grace” has two meanings. The first is the undeserved kindness that God gives us, something the militiamen didn’t show the innocent Indians.
A second, lesser-used meaning of “grace” is the strength God gives to do right. So when you worship, you thank God for salvation by grace through Christ. Remember also to ask for that second grace. Pray for the strength God gives that can enable your weekday conduct to match your Sunday profession. “Keep your conduct among the Gentiles honorable, so that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day of visitation.” (1 Peter 2:12)
Spirit of God, let my conduct not hinder Your saving grace coming to others. Amen.
Comments