Grace … has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus.–2 Timothy 1:9-10

I became transfixed with the transforming power of grace while watching the play Les Miserables. Jean Valjean was arrested for stealing a loaf of bread. Finally released after 19 years in prison, he couldn’t find a place to stay until a bishop graciously offered him lodging. But then Valjean stole some silver from the bishop’s home and fled. Captured the next day, he was brought back to the bishop. But instead of accusing him, the bishop said he had given Valjean the silver, and then he also gave Valjean two silver candlesticks. Overwhelmed with the extravagance of grace, Valjean’s priorities changed. He surrendered his life to God and worked to help others.
E. Stanley Jones once remarked, “Grace binds you with far stronger cords than the cords of duty or obligation.” That rings true in my life. I remember renewing my commitment to ministry at a Promise Keepers conference. At one point in the weekend, pastors (I know I’m not a pastor, but a DCE wasn’t too far from the mark.) were summoned to the middle of the stadium. The crowd of 65,000 broke into applause that continued for at least 10 minutes. What an unbelievable motivation I felt! I fell to my knees and promised God that I would contribute my very best for him and the church.
God’s extravagant grace was present before the beginning of time, has been revealed in Jesus, and continues for eternity. Let God’s grace overwhelm you today.

REFLECTION

Reflect on your life. When have you been the recipient of God’s extravagant grace?

Prayer

Father, focus our eyes on your extravagant grace. May we become spellbound with the mercy of Jesus Christ so that we offer ourselves totally to your service. Amen.

PRAYER REQUESTS FOR THE WEEK OF OCTOBER 23RD, 2011

FOR THOSE IN NEED OF THE LORDS HEALING

Gorden Unger: in Baptist Hospital East in critical condition.
Rachael Taubert: [friend of Terry and Steve Lindgren] whose unborn child the Doctors feel is having difficulty.

Praise our God, all peoples, let the sound of his praise be heard; he has preserved our lives and kept our feet from slipping. – Psalm 66:8-9

All For Jesus
Paul Nickel
Director of Christian Education
Our Savior Lutheran Church