Trying Grace on for Size

Grace is an incredible thing.  We sing about it, preach about it, and talk about it all the time.  If you are unfamiliar with the term or its meaning, grace is simply defined as the unmerited favor of God.  In other words, God works in our lives, not because He has to, but because He wants to.  He touches us everyday, not because we deserve it, but because He loves us.  God makes a difference in our lives, not because of who we are, but because of who He is. 

We usually think of grace in regard to our sin and shortcomings being forgiven.  Forgiveness is obviously a huge part of grace.  There are, however, so many more facets to grace.  It’s God’s grace that enables us to move on when our lives have been touched by loss or tragedy.  It’s grace that helps us endure a prolonged illness.  It’s grace that brings us through the dark and difficult times of life.  

I have seen people who have lost loved ones be able to smile through their tears because of grace.  The assurance that tempers their grief is the grace of God.  I have stood bedside and watched people deal with their health crumbling out from under them.  Somehow, despite their illness and frustration, they are at peace in the hands of God.  That’s grace.  I have seen men and women who have lost their jobs trust confidently in God and His ability to provide.  Only grace can do that.  God says, “My grace is all you need.  My power works best in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9, NLT).  It’s grace that lets us endure the storms of live with patience and confidence.  It’s grace that allows us to refocus when we don’t get our own way.  And it’s grace that helps us be humble when we do.  Give God’s grace a chance to work in your life today.

Politics Over People

The last few weeks have been interesting to me.  Although I disagree with the policies of the man, I can appreciate the historical nature of the election and inauguration of Barack Obama as the President of the United States.  Furthermore, I can fulfill my Christian duty to pray for, and be submissive to the authority of those who lead.  What I find very interesting is this:  I wonder if all of the people talking about how enthusiastic they are because of Mr. Obama’s election had the same sort of enthusiasm about Condoleeza Rice or Clarence Thomas?  I am curious if these same people supported Kenneth Blackwell when he ran for the governor of Ohio.  Of course they didn’t.  All of the media, the athletes, and the celebrities are not excited so much about the race of the incoming president, as they are about the fact that he shares their politics.  Don’t be fooled.  When it comes to those who fill our airwaves, it’s almost always about the politics of the person more than it is the person.