Gift of Grace

​Christmas! That word brings so many beautiful happy thoughts!! Sparkling lights! Beautiful gifts! Happy family gatherings! Fireplaces! Delicious food! Surprise gifts! Music that touches the heart! Love!!

What would be the impact on this precious holiday if we put “Give Grace” at the top of our Gift List? That is my prayer for you this month. We always want other people to show us grace, give us the benefit of the doubt, and forgive us when we are selfish or careless. What if we led the way by following Christ’s example and made a conscious effort to extend grace to others this season? Wouldn’t our world be a more peaceful and loving place? Think about it! Instead of jumping to the conclusion that someone meant to be rude to us, or someone meant to take us for granted, or someone was deliberately trying to hurt our feelings – what if we stopped ourselves from assuming the worst? What if we stopped thinking about ourselves and our hurt feelings and instead asked the other person who we think has done us some wrong how they are and what they are struggling with? What if we extended them the same grace that we always want others to show to us? Christ calls us to love everyone and show them grace and forgiveness.

"See to it that no one misses the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many." Hebrews 12:15

"Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you." Colossians 3:13

How beautiful it is to see children who have been brought up with a spirit of grace and I get to witness them showing grace and forgiveness to others instead of being self-focused and getting their feelings hurt at the drop of a hat. My heart is so warmed and encouraged when I am able to observe a child reduce their focus on "fairness" and "justice" and put a higher focus on love and forgiveness! We, as parents have a huge responsibility to teach our children about God's grace, the beautiful free gift the Lord gives us that we don't deserve!

When we fully grasp our fallen nature and God’s amazing love and mercy for us, how can we possibly withhold grace and be critical of others? That is the true beauty of Christmas! God loves us so very much that He sent Jesus at Christmas to save us from our sinful selves. How can we hold onto that and claim it for ourselves and not pass it on to others around us?

I am praying that you wrap up a big dose of “Grace” and give it to everyone on your list this year!

In His service,

​Susan Truman

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