Earlier, I posted about the new book from I am Second - you can read about the I am Second movement and book here.
One of my favorite stories in the New Testament is the story of a woman walks in and pours a year’s wages worth of perfume on Jesus’ feet. A woman known in her community not for her generosity or goodness but for being a “sinner”—the kind of woman found on late-night street corners. Her scented offering became the expression of her faith, of her desire and gratitude for the forgiveness that Jesus brought. She used her tears and her hair to wipe His feet clean. She gave much because she was forgiven much. Luke 7:36-50
I can relate to people who are broken and who have done things in their lives to cover up or mask hurt and pain by doing something that momentarily feels good -- only later to regret those decisions or actions -- to be ashamed of things I have done to feel like if people knew who I really was or what I had been, they would not want to associate with me. To look at myself and just think "Why? Why are you trying to destroy yourself?"
And then, in the midst of all of that - I find that I am loved and I am forgiven. That because of Jesus and his sacrifice, my sins, my dirtiness, my poor decisions and actions, my past, present and future sins are wiped away. That not only are they wiped away but my life is a testimony to what God can do in a life given to Him. Oh, I get weepy just thinking about how much He has done for me. Jesus, I am Second.
Jesus knew the greater the sinner, the greater the appreciation for the
beauty of forgiveness. No matter our sin, no matter our history, our
mistakes or our struggles, Jesus offers forgiveness. No life is too tattered, no soul too battered, no heart is too dirtied to be saved by the forgiveness of Jesus.
Your sins are forgiven. . . . Your faith has saved you; go in peace.
—Luke 7:48, 50
I Am Second
I am Second is a movement meant to inspire people of all kinds to live
for God and for others. Actors. Athletes. Musicians. Business leaders.
Drug addicts. Your next-door neighbor. People like you. The authentic
stories on iamsecond.com provide insight into dealing with typical
struggles of everyday living. These are stories that give hope to the
lonely and the hurting, help from destructive lifestyles, and
inspiration to the unfulfilled. You’ll discover people who’ve tried to
go it alone and have failed. Find the hope, peace, and fulfillment they
found. Be Second.
For years, I have been moved by the videos and stories that are posted. It has allowed me to look in someone's life and be a part of his/her testimony. And, it makes me think of my own testimony and ask if I am Second or am I First? Other times, I think, "I just can't do ____________ (whatever it is at the moment)" and the still small voice tells me "But God can" and I find others who have been on my journey.
I was very excited when I found out there is a daily devotional,
LiveSecond: 365 Ways to Make Jesus First being released on 12/9/12.
I have been fortunate to be part of a the launch team and I have been reading through the book. At the first of the year, I always start looking for a devotional for the year - this one is a keeper. Each day hits a certain area to focus on - you will read scripture, possibly watch a video and read how scripture relates to your focus area. You will be asked questions to prompt you to reflect on how to be second.
You can pick up the book at any retailer and at amazon.com, barnesandnoble.com, christianbook.com, etc.
Thank you, I Am Second, for the opportunity to be part of the launch team and for providing much appreciated support and information. And, of course, for giving me a free book to review.
For years, I have been moved by the videos and stories that are posted. It has allowed me to look in someone's life and be a part of his/her testimony. And, it makes me think of my own testimony and ask if I am Second or am I First? Other times, I think, "I just can't do ____________ (whatever it is at the moment)" and the still small voice tells me "But God can" and I find others who have been on my journey.
I was very excited when I found out there is a daily devotional,
LiveSecond: 365 Ways to Make Jesus First being released on 12/9/12.
I have been fortunate to be part of a the launch team and I have been reading through the book. At the first of the year, I always start looking for a devotional for the year - this one is a keeper. Each day hits a certain area to focus on - you will read scripture, possibly watch a video and read how scripture relates to your focus area. You will be asked questions to prompt you to reflect on how to be second.
You can pick up the book at any retailer and at amazon.com, barnesandnoble.com, christianbook.com, etc.
Thank you, I Am Second, for the opportunity to be part of the launch team and for providing much appreciated support and information. And, of course, for giving me a free book to review.
