The biblical definition of grace is defined as unearned, undeserved favor and kindness of God to people. When I think about God’s grace, I can’t help but smile and think about Ephesians 2:8-9 that says “God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it.”
“Because of His Grace” a tax collector named Zacchaeus was despised by many but despite his questionable reputation, Jesus extended grace to him by choosing to stay at his house as described in Luke 19:5-6. Because Jesus extended grace to Zacchaeus, it led to his transformation and repentance, showing how Jesus’s grace can reach and change even those considered outcasts. (“Zacchaeus, quick, come down! I must be a guest in your home today. Zacchaeus quickly climbed down and took Jesus to his house in great excitement and joy.” Luke 19:5-6)
If you have listened to any of my thoughts for any length of time, you know by now how much I relate to King David. Despite his many sins, including adultery with Bathsheba and arranging the death of her husband, David received God’s grace and forgiveness. This is seen in Psalm 51, where David repents and seeks mercy, and in 2 Samuel 12:13, where the prophet Nathan addresses him, and David is assured that the Lord has forgiven him. (“Then David confessed to Nathan, ‘I have sinned against the Lord.’ Nathan replied, ‘Yes, but the Lord has forgiven you, and you won’t die.'” 2 Samuel 12:13) “Because of His Grace” it can cover even the darkest, the ugliest, and the most shameful of sins when there is genuine repentance.
“Because of His Grace” I can testify how I was the woman at the well. Her story is found in John 4. She was a Samaritan who had a complicated personal history, having had five husbands and living with a man who was not her husband. Despite her past and being an outcast in her community, Jesus engaged her in a deep conversation about living water and revealed Himself as the Messiah. In John chapter 4 verses 28 to 30, her encounter with Jesus led to her transformation and became a catalyst for many in her town to believe in Him. Her story, much like mine, shows how Jesus offers redemption and a new purpose to those who have been outcast or burdened by their past. (“The woman left her water jar beside the well and ran back to the village, telling everyone, ‘Come and see a man who told me everything I ever did! Could he possibly be the Messiah?’ So the people came streaming from the village to see him.” John 4:28-30)
“Because of His Grace” we receive unearned forgiveness, love, and transformation, allowing us to live fully restored and purpose-driven lives all for the glory of Jesus.