John Lucas sat at home and watched the Final Four and then watched his program at Baylor fall apart right before his eyes. Shortly after — due to a special NCAA ruling — Lucas got the chance to transfer and play immediately. He chose Oklahoma State, finished as a 3rd team All-American and now is preparing his game for the finals this weekend. Lucas got what we all desire at times … a fresh start.

The first-time criminal, the struggling married couple, the misunderstood coach and the sinner all can receive a fresh start. So how do we get a fresh start? Ask for help from the One who can make it happen. We are told in Psalm 51 that God will intervene and make us clean and wash us whiter than snow from our sins. Because of God's love for us, He wants to give us a fresh start and then make the most of it. It is our responsibility to live and to be different, not just to return to the prior life or to sinful living. God can heal and mend anything He chooses. The first-time criminal can be reformed, the broken marriage can be reconciled, the misunderstood coach can be refocused and the sinner can be restored through Jesus Christ.

John Lucas got his fresh start and made the most of it this past year. When you get a fresh start from Christ because of your sinful nature, what do you do with it? Make the most of it or blow it off and return to sin? If it is up to you, make your fresh start in Christ the most important thing in your life, because it should be. Lucas daily thanks the Lord for his new opportunity, do you?