During the American War of... - All The Good Seed Daily Devotionals for 2025

If when we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of his Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by his life.
Romans 5:10.

During the American War of Independence a preacher named Peter Miller lived in Pennsylvania. He was esteemed by his parishioners, but he had one neighbour who hated him and often insulted him. One day that neighbour was arrested and condemned to death in the city of Philadelphia for treason. When the sentence was announced, Miller didn't hesitate to travel to General Washington, the later President of the U.S.A..

Miller pleaded vigorously for the condemned prisoner, but Washington retorted, "I' m sorry, but I cannot pardon your friend" - "My friend?" exclaimed Miller. "That man is the worst enemy I have in the world!" - "What?" asked Washington in astonishment, "You have walked 60 miles to save the life of an enemy? That puts a different complexion on the matter. For your sake he will be pardoned."

Miller received the annulment document and set out to walk the 15 miles to prevent the execution due to take place that afternoon. He reached the place just in time. The condemned man recognised him and shouted bitterly, "Hey, Miller, have you come all this way for revenge and to watch me being hanged?" How astonished he was when Miller produced the document that preserved his life.

God's love is even greater, offering us, His enemies, grace and life. To do so He had to give His own Son into death. Rejecting such an offer would be the greatest sin.

Today's reading: Leviticus 17:1-16 · Psalms 66:1-7