So, here is the start to my new blog. Short, simple, and maybe even an elementary concept for you to read about. But still a concept that needs to be blogged about, nonetheless. :)
I have been meditating on the word GRACE for about three days now. It is unfortunately an over-used, cliche, weakened & stale phrase among Christian culture today. I am so sad that we ourselves have sabotaged a word that contains so much power, significance & virtue. Grace is a tool that can be easily accessed, if we weren't such complicated beings, always allowing ourselves to be our own stumbling block to enjoying relationships with one another. It's not until life brings you an experience where grace is truly needed, that you understand its' function and purpose. The Lord grants us grace so that we can receive it as a gift. But with that gift, comes responsibility. We receive grace from Him so that we can extend it to others. This is not merely a suggestion.
...so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast... (Ephesians 2:7-9).
Do not work to earn what God is already eager to pour out upon you as a gift. But also, do not be mistaken. There is absolutely nothing we have done to deserve or become entitled to this gift. We must simply & humbly receive it, and give endless & sincere thanks for it.
NOW, my friends, I will close with this awesome quote that I read today by Brennan Manning:
"Whatever our failings may be, we need not lower our eyes in the presence of Jesus. Unlike Quasimodo, the hunchback of Notre Dame, we need not hide all that is ugly and repulsive in us. Jesus comes not for the super-spiritual but for the wobbly and the weak-kneed who know they don't have it all together, and who are not too proud to accept the handout of amazing grace. As we glance up, we are astonished to find the eyes of Jesus open with wonder, deep with understanding, and gentle with compassion..."
It's all because of the gift of his grace.
-Melanie.
