In a recent Bible study, the leader said something very insightful, “Most people like what God says until we are called to action.” Similarly, most like the grace of God until it requires a changed life. One desires the forgiveness of God as long as it doesn’t mean one has to forgive others.
Often in the Church world, we talk about the free gift of God’s grace, but we shallow the message of what that grace will require of the receiver. Followers of Christ are expected, called, and empowered to live differently. Followers of Christ, who have received the grace of God, are to model to others what they first received from God. Grace is a powerful transformative agent that fosters an inside-out change. Yes, it is a free gift from God meaning that it can’t be merited, but it does expect to change the receiver.
“Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you” (Luke 6:37-38). I like the image of measurement—the amount you have received, you give that same amount.
This Week’s Readings:
- Monday – Luke 6
- Tuesday – Luke 7
- Wednesday – Luke 8
- Thursday – Luke 9
- Friday – Luke 10
- Parents, teachers, and students as the 2021 – 2022 school year begins.
- All upcoming ministry events inside and outside the walls of St. Paul.
- Families in crisis.
- Loved ones battling illness.
- Those seeking to find their way.
- The St. Paul Church family.
- The United Methodist Church.
- Our leaders, our country, and our world.
“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done.” – Philippians 4:6