A powerful politician had it all – wealth, prestige, power, influence. He became the secretary of defense for a South American nation when he was 37 years old. He ran the nation’s army and directed its attacks against a powerful, notorious drug cartel. Then everything fell apart. He was accused of using drug money to finance a president’s political campaign. He landed behind bars in a military penitentiary, with no contact from the outside world.

A friend smuggled a Bible into his cell and urged him to read the book of Romans. This was the first time he had heard of Jesus Christ, and he was both intrigued and confused. When I visited the capital city, I had the chance to visit him in prison. He expressed confusion about how God could ever forgive him, given what he had done. He felt truly unworthy

I referenced the first verse of Romans 8, “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” I told him ALL of his sins could be forgiven at that very moment. He didn’t need to go and fix himself, or get his act together first. No! All he had to do was believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and accept the forgiveness being offered to him. And he did!

Imagine the freedom and joy that would sweep across this world if everyone accepted God’s forgiveness. Imagine how everything could change if people knew God wanted them just as they are. Let’s start sharing that good news everywhere.

This is Luis Palau.