Healing Grace

HEART //   

We were born with sin and darkness in our hearts and in great need of healing. Overwhelmed by our mistakes and destined to repeat them, we have all experienced shame and guilt. The world around us offers quick-fixes and magic solutions that crumble quickly under any real pressure. We search desperately for answers and meaning, but the search leaves us more deeply broken. 

God loves us so much that he sees and loves us even in our brokenness. Not only does he see us but he made a way for his strength to overcome our weakness... by giving his very Son, coming to earth as a man, and dying the death that we deserve. It is God’s grace that pardoned all our sins and makes us new (Romans 5:8).

Jesus cleanses and heals our brokenness. His grace replaces our shame and we are changed from masters of sin to sons and daughters in his Kingdom. 2 Corinthians 8:9 explains that it was by the grace of Jesus that all of this is possible... “that though he was rich, yet for our sake he became poor, so that we, through his poverty might become rich.” When we receive God’s love, we embrace the fact that we are weak and let his power be the strength of our lives. We live in the realization of our imperfection and welcome him to fill our lives to overflowing. 

Generosity is a grace given by God. It doesn’t come naturally to us, but it is a gift. To get the chance to be like Jesus is always a gift. 

WORK //

As you reflect on your adoption as a son or daughter of God, think about those without a family, without a home, without rights, and without dignity. Refugees of war, those caught in a cycle of poverty, children with special needs in a culture that doesn't make room for them, etc.  Find 15 minutes today to spend in complete silence to empathize with children who have no one speaking up for them or comforting them today.

What if you found yourself far from home, with little hope for decent education or even food, shelter and clean water? How would you hope for the Church to respond and lift you up in a time of need?