Grace

In my reflection today, I'm thinking of Grace as God's favour, love, and protection, given to us by Him. Given, not because we deserve it or earned it, but given simply because He loves and cares for us. St. Paul describes Grace in the Bible as an "abundant provision," "glorious," "freely given," "lavished on us," "poured out abundantly," and it is promised to be "sufficient." So, no matter what our path holds, Grace is an abundant provision which is lavished on us, poured out abundantly, and it is sufficient. What would happen if we walked through our days with this truth as part of our belief system, part of our mindset? Would it mean we see our cup as half-full rather than half-empty? If we see it as half-full, we concentrate on the fullness and see more of that throughout the day. If we see it as half-empty, we concentrate on the emptiness and find that all around. How does God give Grace? He often uses others to give it to us. Coincidences occur which are in fact not coincidences at all, but rather God's Grace coming to us just when we need it. Someone said, "When in a desert place, we find God's grace in the face of someone who loves Him." I spent a few days alone in an hotel on a beach after my first husband died. I explored the small town on my first evening there and entered a bookshop. I wandered along the shelving units brimming with books with nothing particular on my mind. Suddenly I noticed a bottom shelf completely empty but for two books lying on it face-up. I read the titles: "Courage to Grieve" (Judy Tattelbaum) and "How to Survive the Loss of a Love" (Bloomfield, Colgrove, McWilliams). I purchased the books and spent the following days devouring them. They were just what I needed; the authors were saying excactly what I needed to hear at that time. To me that was a "loud" example of Grace! I have many, many more examples and I'm certain you have some as well. Moses of long ago challenged the people to not forget what God had done for them - to not let it "slip from their hearts." (Deuteronomy 4:11) As we go through another month of our journeys, let's remember Grace. Let's recall all the times God sent us Grace - showed us His love. Also, look for Grace, be open to see Grace. When we have an expectant attitude it's amazing how much we'll notice. I sometimes begin the day with the question, "I wonder where I'll find Grace today?" Pray for Grace. The writer of the book of Hebrews says that we can boldly come to the throne of Grace to find help when we need it. Imaqine! God's throne is called "a throne of Grace." So what might we expect to find there? Grace to help us in our time of need! And, finally, look for opportunities to pass on Grace. God distributes it most readily through his creatures. He tells us we are trustees of His many-sided Grace. (1 Peter 4:10 Ampl.) Grace is in our keeping in order to pass it on! NEXT: "He Speaks Tenderly" BACK TO: "Archives