Since we’re talking about salvation, we must mention grace. If you’ve been around a church for even a minute, you’ve probably heard that word bounced around. Don’t mistake God’s grace with how we act when we’re being “graceful.” It’s not about how delicately we walk. Grace is what God freely gives.
Grace is another way to think about forgiveness. When you think of all the sinful things you’ve done and will do, the “secret sauce” that God uses to forgive us, redeem us, and save us is called grace. We don’t deserve such a gift, and yet God stands ready to shower us with this amazing grace. There’s a poem by that name, “Amazing Grace,” written by John Newton in the 1700s and then put to music in the 1800s, and we still sing it in church today. Chris Tomlin recorded my favorite version by adding a powerful chorus. Be moved as you listen here.
These verses from Ephesians impress upon our hearts the importance of this precious gift of grace. It’s not a tangible gift with ribbons that we open. Grace is our forgiveness and the promise that salvation is in God’s hands. There is nothing we can do to earn this grace or our salvation. It’s like a flood of mercy we can’t explain.
We can relax knowing our salvation doesn’t depend on our efforts. If you’ve ever worked hard for some sort of earthly reward, you know the pain and sacrifice involved. You also know the desire to succeed and be seen. Jesus is our success, and he sees us right where we are. Our salvation is “not a reward for the good things we have done.” That takes so much pressure off, doesn’t it?
Besides receiving the grace, we’re also seen by God as a masterpiece. Have you ever thought of yourself as a work of art? We are being prepared specially by God for God. “For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.” Doesn’t the mere thought of that humble you and exhilarate you all at the same time?
Look around at what is happening in your life right now. Where do you see God’s fingerprints? If you’re not sure, look harder. Ask God to reveal himself to you. Open up your eyes to see him moving, watching you, cheering you on. You will probably notice that you have gotten to this moment by no accident. God has had his hand on your life the whole time.
As the hymn Amazing Grace continues, “The Lord has promised good to me, His word my hope secures. He will my shield and portion be, as long as life endures.” Grace is amazing, indeed! Remember, too, that you are a work of art, fashioned perfectly by God. What are the good things you will be doing that God planned for you long ago? Don’t rush past these reasons to celebrate and be grateful.
Take some time today to reflect on this gift of grace you have been given. How are you going to respond?
Let’s pray. Father, I believe without a doubt that you love me and have special plans for me. Reveal yourself and my direction to grow closer to you and glorify you more. Thank you for the grace and mercy you so freely give. It’s hard to fathom that much love. Help me never to take that for granted but treasure the gift with my whole heart. Thank you for breaking my chains and setting me free. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
