“Oh man, that was a mistake! I didn’t realize they were pouring that wine I always avoid! Had a big headache the next day.”

My buddy was bemoaning the hangover he always gets when he drinks a particular bottle of wine. It was the effect of the congeners. In alcoholic beverages, ethanol comprises the main alcohol that results from fermentation and/or distillation. However, during the fermentation process, other substances besides ethanol are produced. Some of these substances are aldehydes, methanol, ketones, and tannins. Collectively, these other substances are called congeners. 

Even with good intentions, it is difficult to create a pure product. In food or product manufacturing, quality control seeks to minimize and ideally eliminate impurities. Yet, as hangovers attest, it is nearly impossible. Isn’t this how sin is in our lives?

A little leaven leavens the whole batch of dough. 

Galatians 5:9 (CSB)

Any sin, even those that are seemingly trivial, has the potential to completely destroy our lives. If we ignore the sin, like leaven (yeast), it can quickly permeate our entire being. How can we become pure, free of sin?

If we say, “We have no sin,” we are deceiving ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say, “We have not sinned,” we make him a liar, and his word is not in us. 1 John 1:8-10 (CSB)

We are born sinners and until we are in Heaven with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, we will continue to sin. The Good News is that in this life, if we confess and repent of our sins to Jesus Christ, His saving grace of Jesus Christ is able to cleanse and purify our lives of sin. Whether it is just a trace, like a congener, or a large sin, like leaven in a batch of dough, He is able to accomplish what He promised through the power of His Resurrection. 

Love and trust in the Lord; seek His will in your life.

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