I was on staff at a church several years ago. It was never dull. There was always something happening. We were always busy.

As I walked through the lobby one day, I noticed the windows above the main doors had an outline of a bird. Clearly a bird had flown into the window and left a mark.

What remained was residue from the bird showing that he had been there, but that he had moved on and had survived. The bird got a second chance to continue with life.

I was reminded that my life isn’t much different. I make my way around the world, I leave my mark, I make mistakes, I get a second chance, and then I move on.

How blessed we are that our God is a God of second chances.

We see Israel’s plight throughout the Old Testament. They were called to God’s righteousness, lived accordingly for a while, were tempted by the lure of other gods, worshiped other gods, disappointed God, repented, called again to God’s righteousness, lived accordingly for a while, and the cycle started all over again.

There were individuals who seemed to have the same difficulty in the Bible, but were also drawn back to God for their second chance. There was Adam and Eve, Jacob, Samson, King David, Jonah, and Peter to name a few. The Bible is filled with people who loved God, followed His plan for a while, fell into sin, repented of the sin, and then walked in fellowship with God again.

In fact, the last two verses of the Book of Lamentations shares the author’s concern for himself and perhaps all of humanity. “Restore us to yourself, O Lord, that we may return; renew our days as of old unless you have utterly rejected us and are angry with us beyond measure.” (Lamentations 5:21-22 – NIV)

This author had sinned. He knew the error of his ways. He begged for God to forgive him. He prayed that God hadn’t turned away.

How many times have you or I been in that exact place? In that exact moment? More times than I’d like to confess here.

But lovingly God forgives us. He forgets all the foolishness of our lives. He accepts us back as one of His own. He loves us as if we hadn’t sinned against Him. He is indeed the God of second chances. Not just for the biblical sinners, but also for each of us.

So how am I so sure about this? Because God’s Word tells us over and over that He will forgive if we repent. Read through these verses to see if you agree with me.

“For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear him; as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.” (Psalm 103:11-12 – NIV)

“Who is a God like you, who pardons sin and forgives the transgression of the remnant of his inheritance?” (Micah 7:18 – NIV)

When Peter asked Jesus how many times to forgive another, Jesus responded, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.” (Matthew 18:22 – NIV) Jesus then continued with the parable of the unmerciful servant (Matthew 18:23-35).

“For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world but to save the world through him.” (John 3:17 – NIV)

When caught in adultery, a woman was to be stoned according to the Law of Moses. But Jesus offered a second chance to this woman in John 8:2-11.

“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8 – NIV)

“The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” (1 Peter 3:9 – NIV)

“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9 – NIV)

I believe God has showed us that He is offering second chances to anyone who is willing to accept the gift. I know I am thankful each day for the new love and compassion He showers upon me (Lamentations 3:22-23).

A smile always crosses my face when I see the picture of this bird outline. I am reminded of how blessed I truly am to be loved by the Great King who is willing to forgive me yet again and give me a second chance.

Do you need a second chance? Why not come to Him? Accept the offer of a second chance (or third or fourth). He loves you and wants you to be part of His Kingdom forever. He is patiently waiting. What are you waiting for?

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

Donna