Have you ever heard of Derwin Gray? If you haven't, you should definitely take the time to look him up. He's a former NFL defensive back who played for the Colts and the Panthers (back when they were a pretty good team), aptly nicknamed "The Evangelism Linebacker" and he is the pastor at Transformation Church in Fort Mill, SC. I've included some links below for you to read more about Derwin - I promise you it will be time well spent...this guy has an incredible story to tell.
Derwin wrote a wonderful book a few years back called "Hero" and a good friend of mine gave me a copy. I will forever be grateful for my friend - this book has really given me a lot of perspective, on myself, on my faith, and on my marriage.
So, here's what I want to share with you on this day when we all think about LOVE and what it means:
"In a world where nothing is free, it may shock you to realize that God's love truly is free. You do not have to pay for it by being good or by achieving some moral standard of acceptability (Ephesians 2:8-9). The Great Hero's love for you has nothing to do with your behavior. Neither your faithfulness nor your unfaithfulness changes in the slightest degree God's love for you." -Derwin L. Gray, "Hero", p. 39.That really spoke to me when I read it and I hope it speaks to you as well. God's love for us is so infinite and powerful. Take a moment today to revel in that love and to be grateful for it, for it is the most pure form of unconditional love you will ever know. And, it is my prayer, that each of you do know that love. God isn't asking for perfection, just for faith.
Happy Valentine's Day to all of you!
http://www.tc521.org/
http://www.oneheartatatime.org/ - click on the "Hero" cover to learn more about this book.
http://www.derwinlgray.com/
