And when he comes he will convict the world in regard to sin and righteousness and condemnation. // John 16:8
The shouting increased, shattering the peace of the quiet evening.
Two family members were arguing. Their anger seeped out, more visceral with every word, seemingly cloaking everything in heavy tension.
I felt my chest tighten, felt the desire to speak in a way that would bring calm. To utter words that would stop this fight quickly getting out of hand. However, my words caught in my throat.
One of the family members in his pain and brokenness turned to me and screamed, “You think you’re so holy! What about everything you have done! You’re just a hypocrite!”
Memories from my past flooded my mind as I tried to hide the tears welling up in my eyes. The old lies from the enemy began to claw at my heart, and I felt completely crushed by the weight of my past sins, crushed by the way this family member thought of me, crushed by the lie that continuously wounded me: You will never be good enough for Jesus to love you.
Sister, these are lies from the very pits of hell. I want to proclaim to you that no matter your past, Jesus loves you. Jesus pursues you. Jesus redeems you and restores you.
In His great mercy and love, He convicts your heart and sets you free. Holiness is for you. Sainthood is for you. I encourage you to open your heart to the Lord and reveal the areas, the sins, the wounds, and all the hurtful words and lies you may have believed. Reveal them to our tender and loving Lord Who will reveal to you the truth: You are His beloved daughter. You were made to be a Saint. Trust Him. He will lead you. He is with you.
By His wounds, you are healed.
By His wounds, you are healed. // Leana BowlerClick to tweet
Leana Bowler is a wife and mother of five little ones. She is a Holy Rosary enthusiast with deep devotions to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary. Her love for the message of Divine Mercy led her to become a Marian Missionary of Divine Mercy. She enjoys the miracles of family life, strong coffee, and encountering others on this journey to sainthood. She was a contributing author to And Hay Became Holy and Made New: 52 Devotions for Catholic Women.
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