A Do Over

There are so many times I want a do over:

As a husband.

As a father.

As a friend.

As a Christ-follower.

Today is a day I wish I had a do-over as a pastor. Trisha and I leave today for a quick trip to Indiana. We are attending the visitation and funeral for a long-time family friend. About 8 years ago, our friend Fred decided to give God and the Church a second chance. Years before he had experienced tragedy and lost trust in God and the Church. But somehow, someway, God used our church plant and he and his wife Judy began attending faithfully with their family.

Three years later, I failed morally.

I can’t even count how many times in messages I said something to this effect, “This church is for people who have lost their belief in the church.” Then I contributed to helping people lose their belief in the church. Now, almost six years later, my friend has passed away.

I know that grace is strong. I know grace is powerful. I know grace is unexplainable. I know that I am forgiven and have been restored. I know all of that. But today, as we go back to people that we love and that love us, I’m reminded of the consequences of poor choices. I reminded of the opportunity to honor Christ that was lost. I am reminded that Fred had finally given God a chance, and I pray that I didn’t completely sabotage his journey.

Sometimes, consequences outlive grace and I wish I could have a literal do-over and not just a spiritual one.

Please pray for our friend’s family and loved ones during their time of loss.

I know it is a risky question to answer, but have you ever wished for a do-over?