Labels

Luke 7:36-50

We can hold on to the label of sinner or let Jesus take it and give us the label of forgiven.

How many times have we felt "labeled"? Either by others or by ourselves. Jesus came to remove all of our old labels and give us new ones. We chose whether or not we allow Him to do it.

We read a story in Luke chapter 7 about a woman, she had been labeled a sinner. Those around her saw her that way, and she probably did too. When Jesus met her she was at a man named Simon's house for dinner. Simon wondered to himself whether Jesus was really who they said He was. He said to himself, "doesn't Jesus know she is a sinner?"

The problem really wasn't just that the woman was a sinner. The problem was bigger. You can tell people about your encounter with Jesus, but they may stay stuck remembering the other you. Jesus came to redeem us, but He also came to change us. The old labels need to be removed so He can put new labels on us.

FORGIVEN

Lord help us to see that we are no longer labeled sinners in Your eyes! We are now labeled "forgiven". If you want to change labels it's easy. Humbly come to Jesus and repent (ask Him to remove the sin) and take on the label He died for over 2,000 years ago. FORGIVEN

What labels have you been holding on to that you would like Jesus to take from you?