An ABC of Faith

Grace -

We often use the words of the Grace at the end of a service or meeting, but what is this Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.  Bishop Will Willimon describes grace as "the power of God working in you to give you a transformed life."

The Grace Prayer is based on Paul's prayer at the end of 2 Corinthians 13: - May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all. (2 Cor 13:14, NIV Bible) to which have been added the words "Now and evermore, Amen." It is common practise in church meetings for the whole congregation to say the grace prayer out loud, and to each other. 

In John Wesley's Bible Notes, we see an insight into the importance of this blessing to the life of the church. Wesley warns that it should not be taken with disrespect:- 

"It is with great reason that this comprehensive and instructive blessing is pronounced at the close of our solemn assemblies; and it is a very indecent thing to see so many quitting them, or getting into postures of remove, before this short sentence can be ended. How often have we heard this awful benediction pronounced! Let us study it more and more, that we may value it proportionably; that we may either deliver or receive it with a becoming reverence, with eyes and hearts lifted up to God, "who giveth the blessing out of Sion, and life for evermore." John Wesley's Bible Notes (2 Corinthians 13:14)

In terms of the Christian faith, grace is concerned with the nature of God's love. It is the unmerited favour of God. We do not deserve the love and goodness that is freely and unconditionally given from heaven. All we can do is receive it. Jesus tells a story about a son that squanders his father's inheritance (the parable of the prodigal son). When the son returns, rather than rejecting or disciplining him, the father runs to greet him and celebrates his return. This story gives us an insight into the kind of love that God gives.

A Prayer

Loving Father, You have loved me when I was unlovable. I am so amazingly grateful that I know You and I can experience Your wonderful presence in my life. Give me this day Your grace in how I live my life today. Give me wisdom and gentleness in how I interact with others. Make me pure then peaceable and gentle. May I have a mind that is open to reason and shows mercy. In all of today’s tasks, grant me the wisdom and grace to be sincere and meek. Thank You that You pour out Your grace to me. Amen.