I Will Remember No More
Matthew 9:9-13,18-26; Hebrews 10:17
Illustration
by Billy D. Strayhorn

The evangelist, Luis Palau, met Maria Benitez-Perez. Maria had made an appointment under false pretenses. She claimed that she wanted to interview for a job. But as soon as she entered his office, Maria made her intent clear.

She was the secretary to the Communist Party in Ecuador. She denounced everything having to do with God or with Jesus Christ. Her bitterness overwhelmed Palau. But he listened respectfully and replied gently to everything Maria said.  Soon, Maria was telling him her life story. It was a tale of pain and suffering and sin. And she ended it all with one question, "Supposing there is a God. Would He accept a woman like me?"

Palau didn't hesitate. He turned to Hebrews 10:17 and read, "Their sins and lawless acts I will remember no more." Maria tried to explain once again all the sins she had recently committed. Palau countered with Hebrews 10:17, "Their sins and lawless acts I will remember no more."

Seventeen times Maria tried to explain why she was unworthy to receive forgiveness. Seventeen times. Luis Palau repeated the words: "Their sins and lawless acts I will remember no more."  And finally, Maria Benitiz-Perez bowed her head and prayed to receive Christ.  Just like in the life of Maria Benitiz-Perez, there comes a point when we all have to decide about Jesus. Either He is or He isn't what He says He is. He either does or doesn't do what He claims He claims He can do. If He IS and DOES, then what's the hold up. Why are you still doubting? And if He isn't and doesn't, then why are you still listening?

ChristianGlobe Networks, Inc., What They Left Behind, by Billy D. Strayhorn