Most of us are always looking to be shown some grace. This occurs when we make mistakes or engage in behavior we regret.
When I think about grace, I often think about forgiveness and acceptance. Though these are forms of grace, I do not think they even touch the surface of the “amazing grace” found in Jesus Christ's life, death, and resurrection.
You see, even when we seek grace, it is not the same as the grace God has shown us in Christ. His is the kind of grace that allowed Him to give His life for others while forgiving them for their role in taking His life.
Since I cannot truly comprehend the depth of the grace Jesus’s life demonstrates, I am in awe and a bit confused as I consider that grace.
This is because I know who I am and how I am. I understand my unwillingness to be gracious toward others. I also know that I tend to hold on to the past, places, and people who caused me hurt or pain.
When I do, grace is not my natural response.
Why? I suppose it is because I feel whatever transpired was unjust and unnecessary. Perhaps I even think the things I have experienced in the past were so bad that I see no way even to consider grace, let alone the possibility of forgiveness.
When I find a way to show grace or offer forgiveness, it is usually because the person has asked for it. Even then, before I give it, I weigh whether I believe it is warranted.
How sad it is to consider the “amazing grace” Jesus showed the world in the face of the most heinous of circumstances next to the things I have dealt with in my life.
My question is, why did Jesus show grace and forgiveness in the middle of His sacrifice while I am unable or unwilling to do so without having to sacrifice anything?
I believe the answer comes down to love. Jesus loved those who hated Him then, just as He loves both those of us who love Him and those who still hate Him today.
Even as I write this, I know some people will rail against the notion of “amazing grace” and the redemption and love Jesus died to provide. It is always astonishing to me that this attitude exists. Even more astonishing, though, is this same grace is still available to those who feel this way.
In the middle of it all, grace still stands as a testament to God's love for His creation and His desire that everyone be willing to accept this “amazing grace” for their own.
I am not sure about anyone else, but I want this unconditional grace offered to me, and I accept it willingly. The question now is whether I will show it to someone else—not just anyone, but to the ones who have hurt me and caused me pain and suffering of any kind.
If I can find a way to show grace to those who have hurt me, it will be amazing for both them and me!
Romans 12:12-14,” Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse”.
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