How like Peter am I? Though (I can only hope) I would never deny my Lord with my mouth, how often have I done so through my actions, or lack thereof? How frequently have I bowed to the powers of this world, allowing sin and rebellion to cling to me? How deliberately have I put on my pride, and cast off love and humilty? Without my King's mercy I am a broken man. Without my Saviour's love I am but a fool lost in darkness. Without my God, I have no hope. But it is in such times of fear and doubt, that the Spirit reminds me that I am His, that I have been purchased by the precious, pure blood of the Lamb, that His blood covers me and sanctifies me, presenting me as blameless, righteous, and holy to the Father. I am reminded that His undeserved, unrequited sacrifice saved not only me, but the entire world. Such extravagant mercy, such incomprehensible grace, such perfect love for so unworthy a man. Not only am I forgiven; not only am I healed and transformed; not only have I received unending, unconditional freedom, but I am made a son of the Most High, a man of God. I am infused with the very Spirit of Christ; it courses through my veins and my soul. I am blessed with gifts, supernatural powers, and a destiny specifically designed for me, and I for it. I am promised a place next to Him in glory for all eternity; all this, and a commission to share the life changing power of truth with all those under the clouds. I am granted access to the very throneroom of Heaven. So in those many moments of wavering faith, I ask as the thief hung on the tree beside you, "remember me...when you enter into your kingdom." And as you replied those millenia ago, you tell me, "this day you will be with me in Paradise." And I am............ "Then you will know the truth, and the truth shall set you free." John 8:32 With Hope, Joseph