And Can It Be?

“Oh give thanks to the Lord, for He is good, for His lovingkindness is everlasting. Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, whom He has redeemed from the hand of the adversary.” Psalm 107:1-2 NASB

Charles Wesley had been struggling with his faith. Then, on this day in 1738, his life changed forever. While staying at a home in London, he spent time reading the writings of Martin Luther. And the insights were very convicting, answering so many of his questions.

That night, he wrote, “At midnight
I gave myself up to Christ.” Instantly,
he felt that he was “assured.” He found himself “at peace with God, and
rejoiced in hope of loving Christ.”

Instead of struggling, he continued to experience God’s “power to overcome all temptation.” Quoting the words of Paul, he realized, “with joy and surprise, that He was able to do exceedingly abundantly for me, above what I can ask or think.”

The next morning, he read Psalm 107, and began to write “a hymn on my conversion.” Amazed at what had happened, he wrote, “And can it be that I should gain an interest in the Savior’s blood? Died He for me, who caused His pain—For me, who Him to death pursued? Amazing love! How can it be, that Thou, my God, shouldst die for me?”

Wesley realized that Jesus “left His Father’s throne above so free, so infinite His grace.” That He “emptied Himself of all but love” and died for sinners like him. “’Tis mercy all, immense and free, for O my God, it found out me!” Wesley had felt imprisoned, but felt “My chains fell off, my heart was free, I rose, went forth, and followed Thee . . . No condemnation now I dread; Jesus, and all in Him, is mine.”

Because of that same amazing love, Jesus died for you. Thank Him. Praise Him. And remember all that He has done for you.

Prayer: Father, thank You for Your amazing love for me. Thank You for setting me free. Help me to share Your love with others. Use my life for Your Kingdom. In Jesus’ name. Amen.