When we finished buying groceries, the girls and I headed home. We had spent the afternoon with my parents. The girls always loved to visit grandma and Grandpa. Just as we traveled through the last crossroad toward home, we hurried up the hill into our subdivision — and there he sat.
And when he saw us, the blue lights started flashing. The police officer had been patrolling our area for speeders. I was his next contestant. I remember my words when I realized the consequences. “Oh, no. We just bought groceries.”
I was guilty. The police officer caught me doing 45 in a 30 speed zone. My children sat in the backseat with grocery bags all around them. I was so embarrassed. My thoughts remained on how I was going to pay for a ticket when I just spent our last money on groceries.
After the police officer went through the regular viewing of license and registration, he obviously noticed my solemn prayers. I knew I was guilty of speeding. After several intense minutes, the officer responded with “I’m not going to give you a ticket this time.”
I thanked the police officer (several times) for his mercy. I knew his mercy had saved me from punishment I certainly deserved.
This incident reminds me of the grace of God. I deserve punishment from God for my sins. It seems as though I feel a sense of fear when I recall embarrassing mistakes and poor choices in my life.
We receive grace through Jesus Christ. What a joy to lose condemnation when we have erred. I am forever thankful for His grace and mercies. The sacrifice of Christ rescues me from punishment and gives me everlasting life.