Forgiveness’ freedom

I am now 65 years old. This time of year I, and probably most of us, become very nostalgic. It is a time of year I reflect on memories. Memories of the events of my life and the people who have come and gone, or remained part of it.

I am thankful for the love and support of my family, though there were times I didn’t deserve it. I am thankful for the opportunity my country afforded me to obtain an education. I am thankful for those I served with in the armed forces. I am thankful for being blessed with a long career with a single company and the friendships and relationships built over almost 35 years. Some crippled or destroyed by my failures.

I am not proud of the first half of my life, though by the world’s standards it measures up well.

That brings me to what I am most thankful for. I received a free gift almost 25 years ago. It is a gift available to anyone. It is the free gift of salvation. I gave my heart and my life to Christ and began my new life. It would be great to say my new life has been perfect. But I fail most every day. We are all helpless sinners, Christian or not.

But I know as surely as I know the sun will rise tomorrow I am forgiven. My prayer is all will come to know the freedom of this forgiveness. Happy Thanksgiving!

MICHAEL SANDERS

Little Rock