Freely, Freely

So many tragic and unfortunate events have been in the news lately. So many tragic and unfortunate events happen every day that go unnoticed by most. Situations like the Sandy Hook shooting, kidnappings, or stranded cruise ships that remind me of one thing- grace. These events remind me and probably most Christians of our need for grace. How fallen and broken we are. How evil humanity is. How desperately we need Jesus.

But, these events also bring out the worst in people. It is situations like these where anger and vengeance seem so much easier. Our first reaction to any injustice seems to be retaliation. We want to get even. We want to make things “right.” An eye for an eye,right? If you hurt me, well then deserve it. That seems to be our attitude. We feel like we are owed something. This person who has done us wrong must make it right.  It is as if we believe our reaction will right the wrong that has been done. These bad things that happen to us-they just aren't fair! We must make everything fair!

Now, what about the smaller, everyday injustices?

Someone take your parking spot? That jerk.
The store won’t accept your return? Poor customer service.
Did you waiter forget to fill your drink? No tip for him.
Did you have to wait in line too long? You could run the store better.  

Tough day at work? You let 'em have it.
Nearly every day we experience unfair, inconvenient, and crappy situations. Every day we have a chance to extend grace.

Things aren't fair. Life isn't fair. Grace is not fair. 

Every day we wake up and we hope for things to go just our way. We expect people to be kind and considerate. We expect traffic to run smoothly and every person we meet to be pleased to see us. We never hope to encounter a situation that requires patience and grace. We never want to be inconvenienced. But, how do we act when we are inconvenienced?

Do we exhibit the fruit of the Spirit or the fruit of the world?
Are we patient, kind and self-controlled or are we rude, greedy and angry?

Do we hold these unfair things over someone's head? Do we hold a grudge? Do we expect everyone to see things our way?

If we carry the name of Christ this choice is important. How we react to injustice, no matter how insignificant, is a reflection of Christ. It is a direct reflection of how we view Christ’s grace. Do you have a shallow understanding of grace? Do you realize the vastness of Christ’s death and salvation?

Christ’s grace is not just for you. It is not just for your salvation. It is for you, as follower of Christ to take and pour out over every situation and encounter. God’s grace is not just for the big things- it’s for the little things as well. Christ has given us the authority and the means to show grace and to be grace in the world.

A song kept coming to mind it says,

“He said 'Freely, freely you have received;, freely, freely give. 

Go in my name, and because you believe others will know that I live. 


Christ freely gives us all grace, all mercy and shows us perfect kindness. 
Are we doing the same for others or are we holding back?