The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the foremost.

1 Timothy 1:15

I know a pastor who called himself the “chief sinner of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church.” That title that he used has always struck a chord with me.

As a pastor myself, it helps me to keep perspective to think of myself as the chief sinner of St. John’s Lutheran Church, and it also helps to keep the members of the church in that humble perspective as well. That didn’t just come out of thin air though. This title comes from Paul’s words to Timothy in his first letter to him. Paul knew his sinfulness and he knew his place with Jesus as well. I pray that you never lose sight of the fact that you are a sinner saved by grace.

Jeremy Klaustermeier
Warrenton, MO

Lord, give me clear eyes to see that I am the worst of sinners and in complete need of your grace. Amen.

Reflect: Make a list of all the sins you’ve committed today. Then take the paper and burn it.

Read: Ephesians 2:8-10 and Philippians 2:5-9