Grace, it’s such a beautiful word. For years it has called to me, slowly drawing me out. Somehow grace alludes me or maybe I’ve alluded it. In high school in my imaginary future family of 7 kids, my five daughters all had a name that ment some form of grace.
Even as I have failed to embrace grace, Grace has chased after me. Last week I had the privilege of hearing my favorite fiction author, Robin Jones Gunn speak. What was her topic? Grace, we are all victims of God’s grace.
For a few months now I have debated what my “word” for 2014 would be. At first I thought it would be hope or peace based off one of favorite verses, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him and overflow with hope by the power of the holy spirit.” Romans 15:13 (NIV) It is still a wonderful, wonderful verse yet what do I need in my life right now? Grace. There’s no way around it.
We all have a story, we all have joys, trumps, tragedies and pain. We my friends have a choice in how we are going to tell that story. Are we victims of the situation or are we victims of God’s grace? It’s humbling to admit that have allowed myself to a a victim of the circumstance more often than have allowed myself to see God’s grace in the situation. Throughout life I have always seen my mother show me how to see grace through life’s circumstances, I’ve talked about it but didn’t live it.
Now that I am reminded that I am a victim of God’s undeserved, yet lavishly poured out grace. His grace is like a soothing balm rubbed on an open wound.
“For by grace you have been saved and that not of yourselves, it is a gift of God-” Ephesians 2:8 (NIV)
“But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, my power is made perfect in weakness.’ ” 2 Corinthians 12:9a (NIV)
“Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” Matthew 11:29-30 (The Message)
Allow God to change your story. Tell your story of grace to another friend. Join me in being a kindred victim of grace. Live a life of grace. That is what is going to define my year and writing.
Blessings to you my friends!
If you want to read Robin’s book, Vitctim of Grace I highly suggest it. I am reading through it right now and savoring every bit of it! Plus I got to meet a new sweet blogging friend Laurie Wallin who is releasing her first book, Why Your Wierdness is Wonderful on the 18th! I am very excited about it!
I loved this post. I am right there with you this year. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. Yes! Please!
Thank you! I have something new to learn about grace and God’s story for me everyday. You really should check out Robin’s book. I am learning so much! Grace on you today! Blessings!