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The diverse grace of God
The word “grace” has a high value in Christian circles. That's why it's important to think about their true meaning. Understanding grace is a great challenge, not because it is unclear or difficult to grasp, but because of its immense scope. The word “grace” is derived from the Greek word “charis” and, in Christian terms, describes the undeserved favor or goodwill that God shows people. The grace of God is a gift and the answer to the human condition. Grace is God's unconditional, perfect love for us, through which he accepts us and integrates us into his life. God's love forms the foundation of all his actions towards us. «He who does not love has not known God; for God is love" (1. John 4,8 Butcher Bible).
Our gracious God has chosen to love us regardless of our actions or inactions. Agape stands for unconditional love, and grace is the expression of that love that is bestowed on humanity whether we recognize it, believe in it, or accept it. When we realize this, our lives will change: «Or do you despise the riches of his goodness, patience and longsuffering? Don’t you know that God’s goodness leads you to repentance?” (Romans 2,4).
If grace had a face, it would be that of Jesus Christ. For in him we encounter the true grace that lives in us and through which we exist. As the apostle Paul vividly declared: “I live, yet not I, but Christ lives in me” (Galatians 2,20).
Living a life of grace means trusting that God is on our side and accomplishing His plan for us through the power of Christ's indwelling Spirit. The apostle Peter spoke of the manifold grace of God: “And serve one another, each with the gift which he has received, as good stewards of the diversified grace of God: If anyone speaks, let him speak it as the word of God; If anyone serves, let him do so by the power that God provides, so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ" (1. Petrus 4,10-11).
God's grace is like a diamond with many facets: viewed from a certain angle, it reveals a unique beauty. If you turn it, it reveals another, equally impressive face.
Grace as a lifestyle
Our faith in God and His grace profoundly influences how we perceive ourselves and how we behave toward others. The more we realize that God is a God of love and grace and that He gives us this love and grace through His Son Jesus Christ, the more we will be transformed and changed. In this way we become more and more able to share God's love and grace with others: "Serve one another, each with the gift he has received, as good stewards of the varied grace of God" (1 Peter 4,10).
Grace changes our perspective on God. We understand that he is on our side. It reshapes how we see ourselves – based not on how good we are, but on how good God is. Finally, grace influences how we interact with other people: “Be of such a mind among yourselves, as befits fellowship in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 2,5). As we walk this path together, we should embrace God's rich and varied grace and grow in his ever-renewing love.
by Barry Robinson
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