"He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness for the sake of His name" - Psalm 23:3 (NIV)

In recent times there have been sensational news of prominent church leaders who have fallen. These have ranged from leaders with global ministries leading thousands of followers like Jerry Falwell of Liberty University, Bill Hybels of Willow Creek Church, John Ortberg of Menlo Mega church to lesser known local leaders whom we might know of closer at home. Because these leaders are part of an institutional set up their Boards have often had to ask them to take leave of absence or gracefully exit for the sake of preserving the institution.

Two critical lessons here is that institutions are bigger than individuals! The other is that sin is no respecter of titles or positions. No one is beyond reproach.

Although it may strike many as odd it is actually not a rarity to find a leader who gets entangled in some morally compromising situation. Historically, there are more than ample cases. King David had a fling with Bathsheba, the wife of one of his junior officers whom he caused his death (2 Samuel 11). Abraham slept with his maid Hagar (Genesis 16: 3-4); it is said Solomon , the man who built the temple of the Lord, had 700 wives and 300 concubines!

Now if one looks at how the world handles leaders who fall there is a stark difference. Often the world seeks to hush but once the matter is open then to banish the culprit, whatever their previous record of service.

For Christians, ours is a faith of restoration and not condemnation! David fell on his knees once his sin became obvious to him and poured out his heart to God, “Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions. Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin” (Psalm 51:1-2). Once a believer does that, God wraps His arms around and begins the work of restoration.

Prayer for today: Lord Father God of Abraham, maker of heaven and earth, in you we seek and find restoration wherever we go astray and what a comfort to know there is no condemnation for they that believe and trust in you!