Did that really happen???

My week got off to a rough and unexpected start as my car was impounded during the wee hours of Monday morning. Without realizing it, I had parked in front of a driveway Sunday night, so when the people I blocked needed to leave at 2:30 a.m., they had my car towed. Imagine my surprise to not find my car where I parked it! After much stress, a ride from my kind roommate and a pricey ransom, I was reunited with my car in time to go to work. Even in the midst of such a wretched situation, there were many things to thank God for:

1. I was able to get to work on time.
2. I had the funds to cover the cost.
3. The impound place was only a few miles from where I lived.
4. My car wasn't stolen (my first thought when I realized it was missing)
5. My sanctification (spiritual growth)

Furthermore, as I was reflecting on the event, I was reminded of God's grace. I broke the law in ignorance and suffered the consequences (paying a fine). Even though I didn't realize I had broken the law, I was still guilty. The same is true with God's Law. Even when I don't realize when I break His Law, I am still guilty. As a result, I deserve the consequences - hell. BUT there is good news. Unlike the impound place, there is Someone who paid the penalty for me (because I could never pay it on my own): Jesus Christ. He came and lived a perfect life (without sin) and then was brutally tortured and nailed to a cross where He died - bearing God's full wrath for sin (my sin and your's). God raised Him from the dead three days later and now He lives forevermore. For those who repent of their sins and trust in Christ, they are no longer guilty before God. Their fine has been paid. This is Good News for ALL peoples!

On a different note: I had a nice visit in Missouri. I was once again back in the kitchen where I made baked mostaccioli and a cheap version of Tiramusi (chocolate and coffee, I mean, can you go wrong?). My mom had this recipe for Twinkie Tiramusi. I admit I was very skeptical because I am not a snack-cake fan, but it was actually really good and tasted a lot like the real thing (but cost way less). I will definitely make again.