Jesus of the 2nd Chance

So I recently learned about this cool non-profit called People of the Second Chance. They're pretty much what they sound like, on the site it states -

"People of the Second Chance gives voice to a scandalous movement of radical grace in life and leadership. We challenge the common misconceptions about failure and success and stand with those who have hit rock bottom in their personal and professional lives. We are a community that is committed to stretch ourselves in the areas of relational forgiveness, personal transparency, and advocate for mercy over judgment."

Hmm, sounds a bit like this Jewish dude from way back in the day. I really love the idea of reaching out in grace and mercy to those who have failed, who have screwed up, who have hit the very bottom. I can't really think of much else that is more Christ-like.

I love that Jesus spent time with the sluts and whores, the disabled and lower-class. I love that he met people where they were, not demanding that they rise to a certain standard before he offered them truth, life, healing and restoration. I love that Jesus said -

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls."

I love Luke 22:32. I love that Jesus knew Peter would fail, that he would betray him. But yet even there he is praying for Peter beyond his failure, already looking past Peter's betrayal to his 2nd chance.

And I love that he's not surprised when I screw up or fall short. That even in the midst of my failures he's there working with me through the process. That with unfailing mercy he's brought me through my second chance . . . and third . . . and ninety-seventh . . .

One of the most shameful things in our culture is to fail at something. We use failures as warnings, to frighten people into working better or trying harder. We especially scorn those who have failed because of their own selfishness, laziness, or incompetence. But maybe, as those who have received a second chance, we are uniquely qualified to share with others that failure is not the end of the story. But it can be a beautiful beginning.