Christmas Greetings from Sharon and myself to all who read these daily SOAPs. May the Lord enjoy your celebration of His birth. I wrote this SOAP last night before going to bed, but this morning in re-reading it, the Lord showed me something I had never considered before. I know that it is nothing new, but it was new to me. Number four below was a special gift of freshness the Lord gave me on this Christmas day. Happy Christmas and Merry New Year! Leon J

The Gift of Forgiveness

Pastor Leon’s SOAP: Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer

December 25: 1John 1-5

Scripture: 1John (NIV) 1:3 We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ.

Observation: In this chapter, the word “fellowship” is used four times. Twice it refers to fellowship with God and twice to fellowship among people. It is clear that fellowship with people and fellowship with God are closely intertwined. Fellowship with others is hindered by things that cause us to be offended. They may be real things, or just things in our mind. The one thing that overcomes offences is giving and receiving forgiveness!

Application: If I am unable to have fellowship with my brothers and sisters in Christ who live and work near me, then I need to be checking what kind of fellowship I am having with God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ. If I am having trouble forgiving someone, I need to remember four things. First, I need to remember how many times God has forgiven me! Second, I need to remember that The Great Forgiver is actually living inside me to help me forgive. Third, I need to remember that forgiving is a choice while forgetting is a process. Once forgiven, I need to remember it forgiven. Fourth, I need to remember that this wonderful gift of forgiveness was purchased on the cross. Jesus’ death not only covered my sins against God, but also the sins of others against me.

Prayer: Lord, thank you for being quick to forgive me and restore our relationship. Help me be quick to seek forgiveness and quick to forgive so that nothing will hinder the fellowship I have with those around me and with you. Amen

Pastor Leon

Making friends for time and eternity!