Hope Elizabeth: the 14 year who has stolen my heart and who has become my sister I never had the chance to have.
I’ve been learning so much about forgiveness lately and what it looks like in my life but more importantly, I learned exactly what it should be from this sweet girl.
We were sitting at the table the other night having a discussion with her mom about something that had happened.
I had expected her to come in crying and to be upset. Boy, was I wrong!!
Her words.. “I was sitting there trying to not cry and be angry. The song that came in my head was “Second Chances” by Rend Collective Experiment. The part that stuck out was the bridge that said, “countless second chances we are given at the cross.” It made me think that since we as Christians are supposed to strive to be more Christ like, why can’t I give that person countless second chances?”
SAY WHAT?!! Did a 14 year old just say that? I looked up from my phone and my mouth was wide open.. I’m pretty sure I just laughed a little and said wow did you really just say that? (I really shouldn’t be surprised at all..but in that instant I was.)
In that moment, I knew God was in charge. I knew He had taken ahold of her heart and she is His beloved daughter, for eternity. I knew I had just learned the most important lesson in my life from a 14 year old.
To give countless second chances.
“So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift.”
Matthew 5:23-24
“Then Peter came up and said to him, “Lord, how often will my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? As many as seven times?” Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you seven times, but seventy-seven times.”
Matthew 18:21-22
“And whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone, so that your Father also who is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.”
Mark 11:25
We get countless second chances from God every single day, so why not give those around us that same chance? It’s not easy, but it is so worth it. You will be set free.
To my Hopie:
Hope Elizabeth Gray, thank you for being that light to me. Thank you for showing me what Gods love looks every single day. Thank you for loving me unconditionally. I love that I look at your life and I see God there. I love that I see so much growth and such beauty. You truly are such a beautiful young lady. He has chosen You to be bold and courageous. You always do just that.
I hope you know that when I look at you, I see strength.
I love you always and forever.
xoxo,
Your Sister
