But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved. (Ephesians 2:4-5)

Warning: Do not try this at home.

This morning I was heading to school, when I saw a police car parked in a curious spot. I looked at my speedometer, sighed, pulled over and said goodbye to my spending money for the next two months. I totally deserved a ticket.

But that’s not what I got! The officer let me go. I have no idea why.  (Maybe it was my honesty, or how I mentioned being a teacher, or that I told him I was thinking about salad dressing instead of paying attention to driving. LOL.) For whatever reason, he let me go.

And I have literally been so giddy all day. I walked into work trying not to smile, and I walked out this afternoon trying not to skip to my car. No talkative, rude or snap-chatting students could take away my happiness today.

Ah. Since the moment I left the police officer, I haven’t been able to stop thinking about how his actions remind me of those of Jesus. The way that I have treated the Creator and King of the universe deserves punishment. Even when my actions seem good, my motives are most likely self-absorbed.My heart is deceitful above all things. I try to make my life about ME everyday. I don’t come close to deserving the affection and love that He has for me. Why He thought I was worth saving is truly a mystery.

Despite the wonder, this is the truth. He eternally loves me despite what my actions deserve. He is truly rich in mercy. And knowing this truth is enough for everlasting joy.