The Cross
. . . My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness. . . 2 Corinthians 12:9
There were several things that Coulter was known for: his ability to make people laugh, his protective nature, his Ray-Ban Aviator sunglasses, and his Hawaiian shirts, to name a few. Another was the gold chain and cross he wore around his neck every day.
But even some of his closest friends probably don’t know the story behind his iconic chain and cross.
When I was 15, my parents gave me a gold necklace, and my girlfriend gave me a gold cross. I wore that chain and cross for over 20 years, until Coulter was a baby, when I put it away to give to him someday.
For Coulter’s 15th birthday, I gave him that same chain and cross. I told him their history, that I had worn it for many years as a reminder of what Christ had done for me and the example that I was called to set, even though I failed regularly to set that example well. I let him know that he didn’t have to wear it, that I knew it was pretty blingy, and it probably wasn't “cool,” but that it meant a lot to me, and I wanted him to have it.
I was surprised and proud to see him wear it every day. He not only wore it, but he wore it prominently, backdropped by black or white T-shirts, to the point that it became one of those Coulterisms.
He did not wear it perfectly or live the example perfectly, as none of us do. But he knew whose he was. And both his earthly father and his Heavenly Father knew his heart, and had grace for those times when he faltered.
If only he had given himself that grace.
The cross is not meant to remind us that we have to be perfect. It reminds us that we aren't. It reminds us that Jesus has already done for us what we could never do for ourselves.
There is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.
When we stumble, we don't need to continue carrying the weight that Christ has already carried for us. We can confess our failures, receive the forgiveness purchased for us, get back up, take our Loving Father’s hand, and continue walking with Him.
His grace is sufficient.
You are Loved More than You Know.
#coulterslight
