Come just as you are

“Come now, let us reason together, says the Lord: though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall become like wool.” Isaiah 1:18 ESV

“And it was another successful FFG Donut Run!! I love these monthly events!! Did you know that they are absolutely free and open to EVERYBODY???? Did you also know that you can walk, bike or ruck them too? At your own pace?? Come join us... We welcome you!!” Those were the words I posted (along with pictures) after Saturday’s 5k race that the Frog Fitness Group I am blessed to be a part of hosted. Started nearly six years ago as an outreach ministry, these fun runs have been welcoming people of all ages, paces, fitness levels, and backgrounds into the "family" for years. In fact, the members of this group stress that a person doesn’t have to be a runner to join in. “Come and walk with us,” we always say. “It doesn’t matter how quickly you make it to the finish line only that you make it there.”

And you know, when it comes to people joining our group (or any fitness group for that matter), I have discovered that the biggest misconception people have and the main reason they shy away is because they think they have to be in "good" shape first. Something that just isn't true. Just as it isn't true that a person has to be in “good” shape or have it all together before God will accept them. In fact, our gracious Father invites sinners in the worst of shape to come to Him just as they are so that He, Himself, can clean them saying, "though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall become like wool." And the best part? A person only needs to accept Jesus Christ as their Savior to receive this amazing gift of forgiveness and be accepted into the "family" of believers. 

So as we approach this Christmas season, let us remember that Jesus Christ came to be born in a manger so that He could die on a cross to give us a gift that we did not deserve. He did it for me. He did it for you. And He did it for every other sinner who chooses to say, "Lord I will follow You." Won't you tell somebody? 

Heavenly Father, thank You for loving us despite our unworthiness... so much so that You sent your one and only Son to die so that we could be made clean and have eternal life. If there's someone reading this today that has not accepted You out of guilt, shame or any other reason, I pray that You would stir their heart to do so right now before it's too late. Cause them to have the overwhelming desire to run to You today. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

Run to the Father - Cody Carnes