The light was red. I slowly pulled into the left turn lane to wait for the light to change. I noticed a State Patrol car in front of me. A good feeling overcame me. I had a guilt-free conscience since my registration was up to date, I had not been speeding, and my lights all worked (and since I had been an outstanding citizen).
The light turned green and I followed the trooper as we both turned left. He however turned to the far right lane to let me pass. I thought of the poor fella who was going to get pulled over. Then I noticed his lights coming on behind me. They were for me.
When pulled over, I quickly peeked over my shoulder and noticed my offense: my seatbelt hung loosely at my side. While the kind officer walked up, I slowly and inconspicuously (so I thought) pulled my belt and clicked it in.
“Good day, Ma’m! I am glad you noticed that you hadn’t been buckled! May I see your license and proof of insurance?” He said with a kind smile.
He returned briefly to his vehicle and came back with my ten-dollar ticket in hand. I thanked him for reminding me and wished him a great day.
Since I am a (fairly) good citizen, I went immediately to the courthouse to pay my fine. The clerk commended me and said that she hadn’t seen a ticked paid that speedily. I just told her I wanted to forget about it as fast as I could. Thinking that with paying quickly the sick feeling in my stomach would go away.
When I sat back in my car I buckled in (since I am a citizen who tries to follow the law). Suddenly an extremely grateful thought overwhelmed my heart,
“Thank you God, for taking care of all my offenses.
While I think I am innocent, there is always something that makes me guilty.
I could never pay the fines I owe you for my sins.
THANK YOU FOR JESUS, WHO PAID FOR IT ALL ON THE CROSS!
Lord, keep me from the pride that prevents me from seeing my dire need for Jesus.”
For the wages of sin is death,
but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 6:23
Heidi Viars 
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