In 2 Corinthians 12 Paul refers to a "thorn in the flesh" that he had.  He asked God to take it away from him, not once, but three times! And God answered him all three times "my grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." The Message version of the Bible says it like this, "My Grace is enough; its all you need. My strength comes into its own in your weakness."  This tells me a couple things --first that sometimes there will be things in your life that God will allow you to endure, he doesn't always take away the painful things in your life.  He will however give you the strength--whatever it takes-- to persevere through them and be content in them if you will put your trust in Him.  Also this tells me that I need to admit to my weaknesses (which I have found lately to be an empowering part of my faith journey) Paul not only admits to them, he BOASTS in them!  He boasts so that the power of God can work through him.  I have found that people can see God's power and grace in your life if you admit to having weaknesses. 

For one of the Bible Studies I am involved in, part of the readings for this week includes the interactions of Jesus and His disciples right before and after His resurrection (and in between also) from John.  Right before Jesus was tried and crucified He and His disciples got together for a meal and Jesus washed the disciples feet.  Of course the first thing I am reminded is that I need to be a servant --true leaders serve.  But what never stood out for me until today was Jesus washed ALL their feet, even Judas' feet, the man that betrays Him.  They ALL set down to eat his last meal together. Jesus loved even Judas. What nerve Judas had to stand there and watch Jesus kneeling and washing his feet knowing what he had already done and was planning to do!!

Peter denies Jesus three times but when Jesus encountered him after the resurrection, He forgave him. Jesus had Peter declare his love for him three times.  That reminds me that even though we (more like I!)  still fail God, if we open our hearts to Him, He will restore us.  Peter became a key leader in the early church even though he failed Jesus so badly.   That gives me hope AND no excuse.