We receive Grace in levels. “From glory to glory” the Bible says, as we grow to be more and more like Jesus. (see 2Co 3:18) The more mature we are, the more we live under God’s Grace. Once we receive Grace, though, what should we do with it? Besides enjoying it for ourselves, of course, we should do with Grace what we should do with every blessing from God: give it away. In the next chapter called, “Wet Feet,” Mr Lucado points us to the humble scene where Jesus washed the feet of his disciples. (see Jn 13:1-12) He says, “Jesus touched the stinky, ugly parts of his disciples….he exchanged his robe for the servant’s wrap, lowered himself to knee level, and began to rub away the grime, the grit, and the grunge their feet had collected on the journey.” (pp57-58) Jesus still does this for us, right? And what is important to note is that, Jesus washed all Twelve of His closest follower’s feet, that includes Judas. Then Mr Lucado challenges us to do the same.
Sure it is almost easy to give Grace to those we love…ok I said almost…but even when someone we care for hurts us, we can muster up enough forgiveness and show them underserved love. But to those who we do not particularly like? To those that have left deep scars in our hearts? To those whose awful words still echo in our minds? Can we give them Grace?
Mr Lucado shares a beautiful story of Grace given by Victoria Ruvolo. If you are not familiar with what happened to her and what she did in response, I am not going to spoil it for you. Read this chapter and sit with it for a while. Or more importantly, sit with Jesus and speak to Him about it. Holding a grudge only allows the one who hurt you to continue to hurt you further. Choose, instead, to give Grace away and set two people free, your offender and yourself.
2023’s Got A Minute? Book Club
January: The First & Best Book Ever: The Bible
February: Love Is In the Air: “The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love That Lasts” by Gary Chapman
March: Spring Growth: “Secrets of the Vine” by Bruce Wilkinson
April: Living the Resurrected Life: “The Wonderful Spirit Filled Life” by Dr Charles Stanley
May: My Spiritual Mom: “Making Good Habits Breaking Bad Habits” by Joyce Meyer
June: Spiritual Dad: “It’s Not About Me- Rescue from the Life We Thought Would Make Us Happy” by Max Lucado
July: Financial Freedom “Complete Guide to Money” by Dave Ramsey
August: Summer’s Soul Restorer “A Shepherd Looks At Psalm 23” by W Phillip Keller
September: Covering Our Children: “Prayers for the Prodigals” by James Banks
October: Reformation of Our Hearts: “Grace: More Than We Deserve, Greater Than We Imagine” by Max Lucado
<>< Peace, Diane
