This past weekend David and I were in Ohio, speaking at churches about the work God is doing in Poland. We stayed overnight with a couple whom we were meeting for the first time. As we began talking, the husband told us that he restores old cars. He then invited us downstairs to the show room where we stood in awe of several beautiful automobiles - a 1974 Mercedes, a 1966 Chrysler 300, a 1988 BMW, a 1934 Plymouth "mafia" car, and many more. He does all the body work, painting, and restoration. He then led us into the shop where a few old cars were waiting to be restored. One car was in such poor condition, covered with rust and falling apart. He told us that one day this car will be one of those beautiful, shiny cars out in the show room. I was amazed! I couldn't imagine that car being anywhere but in a junk pile! I asked him if there is ever a car that is "beyond repair." To my surprise, he smiled and shook his head, "No." He said he has taken cars half-buried in the ground and covered with rust and has completely restored them to their original beauty. Through hours of tedious work and loving care, he basically re-builds the car. I saw the twinkle in his eye and realized that it's his life's passion.
As I stood looking at that old car, my heart was deeply touched by the mercy of God. He is the Master Restorer. He is the One who takes us when we are "beyond hope" and creates in us something beautiful. There is no life that is "beyond repair." With a twinkle in His eye, He heals the deepest wound, softens the hardest heart, cleanses the worst of sinners, and renews us from the inside out. It's His life's passion.
How I thank you, God, for your mercy! Restore our lives and the lives of our friends and family. As we yield ourselves to You, re-create us in Your image and we will give you all the glory!
