Convinced

 

And when they saw it, they all grumbled, "He has gone in to be the guest of a man who is a sinner." Luke 19:7 (ESV)   We do not see ourselves as sinful wretches or depraved, and therefore cannot be awed by God's mercy and grace. We have all sinned, we are all depraved, and the religious may be the most disadvantaged of all because of their habit of comparing themselves to others rather than perfection.   The world is not a fair place, except for making things right with God. All people find their way to God through Jesus Christ.   Tragedy awaits those who choose to be blind and deaf while being able to see and hear.   If we are not impressed by God's mercy, grace, and presence, we have not been convinced of our sin's reality and due penalty. Seeing our depravity places us in a position where we see our value to the Almighty. Since our value has nothing to do with position, power, or status. We are empowered to live fulfilling and satisfying lives regardless of our circumstances.   For now, the choice is ours.