THE CHEERLEADING TRYOUT (that taught me about God’s grace)

Every eye was on me as I stood alone on the junior high gym floor. This was it—my one and only chance to become a cheerleader, a chance of a lifetime to stand in a spot I’d always dreamed  to be.

The judge cleared her throat, politely signaling me to begin.

But I couldn't move. Sweat poured out, revealing what I'd been trying to hide.

I didn't belong here.

I wasn't good enough.

I had zero idea what I was doing.

There were two choices - run for the exit and regret it forever, or attempt the impossible.

Why did I choose a handspring for my stunt? I guess there’s a first time for everything. Besides, it was too late to turn back now.

My arms raised in foolish surrender, I went for it. But when my rear end smacked the varnish with a thud, my dream shattered, too.

Failure stings and tells us we'll never measure up.

But a few hours after I left the tryouts in defeat that day, I received an unexpected call. The judge who should have disqualified me chose to believe in me instead.

Despite my epic wipe-out, I made the team.

When basketball season rolled around, I returned to the sidelines of the same floor that defeated me, wearing a uniform I didn't deserve.

It didn’t seem right. But how could I refuse the honor? How could I return the grace I'd been given?

My name was already written on the back. The judge's merciful decision was final.

Just like that judge saw beyond my failed handspring, God views us through the perfect performance of Jesus Christ.

What a glorious place to be!

God's Word tells us that because Jesus has redeemed us from the fall, we are given immediate access to the place we once could only dream of — permanently dwelling in His holy presence forever.

"We find ourselves standing where we always hoped we might stand - out in the wide-open spaces of God's grace and glory, standing tall and shouting our praise." (Romans 5:2, MSG)

Because of God's mercy, your Judge has become your Champion and your biggest Cheerleader.

His grace picks you up and sets your feet in a place of the highest honor, shouting praise and glory forever to the King of kings.

Try-outs are officially over. It’s time to get in the game.

You’ve been called. 

You've been chosen. 

Your name is recorded in Heaven’s roster.

Forget the past and press on with a little bounce in your step. 

You're on Team Glory now. 

Take your place and stand tall.