Blessed is the one whose transgressions are forgiven,  whose sins are covered.  Blessed is the one whose sin the Lord does not count against them (Psalm 32:1-2).

Have you ever been given a second chance when you knew you didn’t deserve it?  I often relate my own undeserved forgiveness to the true story of Roy Reigels and the 1929 Rose Bowl game.  Roy somehow became confused and ran 65 yards toward the wrong goal post until stopped by his own teammate’s tackle. His mistake enabled the opponents, Georgia Tech, to score the winning points.

Back in the dressing room at half time, Roy huddled in a corner, put his face in his hands, and cried like a baby. Coach Nibbs Price paced in silence, thinking. Finally he said, “Men, the same team that played the first half will play the second.”  Roy didn’t budge, and Price repeated himself.  His cheeks wet with tears, Roy protested, “I can’t do it. I’ve ruined you, I’ve ruined the university, and I’ve ruined myself. I couldn’t face that crowd again.”

Coach Price put his hand on the errant player’s shoulder. “Roy, get back in the game; it’s only half over.”  Those who watched the game said they had never seen a man play football as Roy Reigels played that second half.

I too have headed the wrong direction and brought shame to myself, my family, and my Savior. But when given a second chance by my Coach, Christ Jesus, I am determined to do my best to glorify Him.

Prayer: Help me bring honor to You in all I say and do, every day, all the way.  Amen.

(Note: The picture is of my dad, Frank Mayfield, who played quarterback for Elk City, Kansas, high school in the early ’20s.)