The Role of Grace

 Theologian Thomas Oden has written:

         "There is a hole in the standard shelf of books on self-help.  This hole is waiting to be filled by the classical Christian teaching on grace."

       

What is the classical Christian teaching on grace?  It begins with some rather disturbing news--but news which we can all testify as being truthful.  The news is simply this:  "No matter how hard I try, I cannot live up to my own code of values--much less those established by an all-powerful and righteous God."  What follows, however, is the blessing of grace.  No matter how often or badly I fail, God still loves and accepts me--and gives me the strength to forgive myself and keep going.

I am proud to say that I have experienced that grace.  I fail often.  I made mistake daily.  I can't live up to my own high standards.  Nevertheless, I experience a great deal of satisfaction and joy in my life on a daily and growing basis.  Why?  Because I realize that God loves and forgives me. 

God loves and is willing to forgive you too.  Experiencing that grace is the first and greatest step toward CARPE DIEM--Squeezing the Life Out of Life. 

Aristotle was right!  The highest ambition in all our lifes is to experience fulfillment.  We all strive to be happy.  

Buxone Out Of The Box August 15, 2017