Grace and peace
Grace is far more than an abstract (or impersonal) theological idea; it flows from the wonderful reality that God is truly the essence of authentic beauty. Grace is not discovered by merely considering what God does, but rather as we encounter who he is: it is rooted in his character, and not just his activities. So, when the Scripture seeks to communicate that God epitomises love, it takes a step forward from simply announcing that he does loving things or acts with love: rather, we are told, ‘God is love’. Everything that he does –and all that he is – is entwined with loving kindness and grace. Grace is no mere force or special commodity; it is not impersonal magic, a sparkly spell or transforming moon dust. Grace is more than a kiss from Prince Charming or the waving of a wand – rather, grace is found in the One who is gracious.
And peace is ours as we walk in God’s grace, because grace means that we are now at peace with Him.
I’m saddened when I reflect on the story of a Japanese soldier who refused to surrender after World War Two ended and spent 29 years in the jungle. Hiroo Onoda remained in the jungle on Lubang Island in the Philippines, until 1974 because he did not believe that the war had ended, and that peace had come. I meet Christians like that, who live jumpy and agitated lives, never quite able to rest in the wonderful truths that they accepted, adopted, justified, and forgiven by our gracious Jesus.
Let’s pray often that God might take us on a renewed journey of discovery, one that will renew our vision and perception of who he is? Let’s ask the Holy Spirit to strip away masks that have been placed quietly over the Father’s face over the years, disfiguring him, and making it difficult for us to draw near to him with peace. That vision will be sharpened as we choose to soak our hearts and minds in Scripture. It will be renewed by our deciding to live thankful, lives: his beauty shines as it is celebrated. And perhaps we need to rediscover the power of testimony in our churches, as we proclaim to one another the story of God and his part in our stories….
Grace and peace to you!