For God so Loved...

Today I was driving in the car thinking about the the judgment I have passed on those for whom I am better. In my mind I was trying to justify my self righteous feelings. "It's not like I'm saying that they're going to hell. I'm just saying that they don't have a very good chance of getting into heaven." I was thinking about some one who I knew to be (what I thought) truly evil. They did awful things to innocent people including children. How could they get into heaven and how could he have mercy on them. God in His wrath killed Ananias and Sapphira for lying. They hadn't killed or harmed anyone. While I was thinking all these things an image came to my mind. I could see Christ hanging on the cross and I could hear him whisper "Forgive them, for they know not what they do." I was so humbled in that instant. Christ showed such mercy for those people who tortured and killed Him. Who am I to pass any judgment...on anyone. I've always thought of Christ as being merciful, forgiving, and kind. Maybe it's from all the Old Testament stories, but I've never thought of God, the Father, being merciful or forgiving. I think of where it says "vengeance is Mine" and that's how I see him. Today I realized that I'm so wrong in that thought process! God is the One who sent our Savior! I've never really understood the verse (or even really thought about it) "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." When I remembered this verse today, my eyes stung with tiers of joy. It filled my soul with gladness!!! Our God is truly awesome and so LOVING to me. I just want to praise the Lord with thanksgiving. I'm so happy that both God and Jesus love a sinner like me!!! No one deserves His mercy, and yet, He freely gives. :)