We are praying for teachers who give grace. Grace is defined by. “the love and mercy given to us by God because God desires us to have it, not because of anything we have done to earn it”. We all like for grace to be given to us but many times we do not offer grace to others.
Without going into details, last week we were confronted with a situation to show grace to someone else. We have very clear requirements and responsibilities for being in our program. When I spoke with the family and reminded them of our requirements, they were not happy campers with me. When the mother seemed to forget how we had helped her son, I reminded her of the ways we had helped her family. As I walked away from the situation, I felt the Lord speak to me and say, “Show Grace!” I quickly reminded the Lord that we have procedures in a place for a reason and I could justify every decision made. Once again He whispered, “Show Grace!” But they are taking advantage of our kindness… Show Grace. What if it sets a precedent for the other families… Show Grace. We have shown kindness to them and they have forgotten… Show Grace!
To some degree our type of ministry is always cautious of people taking advantage of our kindness. Over the past several days, I have been reminded of the numerous events where Jesus Christ showed grace to people. I love how Jesus was continuously pouring into the lives of others by showing grace to them. Jesus knew beforehand the hearts of the people and yet He loved them anyways. Jesus knew Zacchaeus was corrupt in collecting taxes, and yet He chose to fellowship with him. Jesus knew the life of the woman at the well and yet He showed so much grace to her. Jesus knew He would be betrayed by Judas and denied by Peter and yet He chose to sit around the table and serve them.
When you work with children, parents, and other people, there will be lots of opportunities to give grace. Not to keep score, but to generously give grace. Not to live a life of unrealistic perfection, but to give grace. Not to expect anything in return, but to freely give grace.
We choose to give grace to others, because God gives grace to us. Expecting Nothing in Return–Completely Undeserved–Nothing to Earn It!
“But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved.” Ephesians 2:4-5
Shining Light Abroad Ministries 