For I will be merciful toward their iniquities, and I will remember their sins no more.
Hebrews 8:12
Hello Friend,
Iniquities is not a word we use often in our society. It is Latin in origin (iniquitas), a noun, and means gross unevenness or unfairness. There is little doubt that Paula Deen, according to her own admission, has sinned.
I would certainly consider using racist slurs gross unfairness. And perhaps, she has been unfair in her
business practices as well. Guilty! A Sinner! A professing Christian. And what bothers me as much as Paula’s behavior is our reaction to her sin.
Our scripture this week says that God is merciful, and while I don’t know Ms. Deen’s heart, God does. She now has the opportunity to repent (turn from her wicked ways) and begin again. Remember what Jesus said to the woman caught in adultery, “Has anyone condemned you, and she answered, “No sir.” Then Jesus said, “Neither do I condemn you; go and sin no more” (John 8:11). It seems that the press and people on social media sites are hurling boulders destroying the business she worked so hard to achieve. Others are relishing the scandalous details and taking delight in watching her empire crumble. Are we showing mercy? Is our extremely judgmental behavior not just as sinful? Whose sins are worse? I believe not just Paula’s Deen’s behavior has wounded God’s heart this week. Surely God must be weeping at our sins as well.
Linda
Prayer: We see our name written in the sand, Lord, and seek your forgiveness. Create in us
a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit with us. Amen