Wednesday, December 1, 2010

Everyday Grace

We are a needy people. No one likes to need, especially in a country that prides itself on independence. It is a lot to get over when you find out you are in no state to help yourself into Heaven. This is the whole reason Jesus came and why we celebrate Christmas. He came and did what we could not. Our sin is a mortal disease. Yet Jesus was the only human who did not have the disease in the history of the world. 

It is one thing to learn you need Jesus and ask Him into your heart. Fine, we say, I needed you for that. But the rest of this, I’ve got a handle on. It brought me up short this week to be in need. Time and again God shows He knows we are a needy people, and He provides. So why should there be any shame? We need, He answers.

 This week I’ve been having a rough time not feeling well. Yesterday I thought, tomorrow for sure I can handle making dinner. But there’s not much to eat after that meal, and the thought of shopping was daunting. I thought, if only someone else could do it. That’s silly though; there are some things you just have to do. So I was floored this morning when a friend called and offered to do my grocery shopping! In fact, I started to cry. Psalm 9:18 tells us God will never forget the needy. In Psalm 69:33 the Lord tells us He hears the needy. Psalm 72:13 says he will take pity on the weak and the needy. So why should I be so surprised that God cares even about me and my needs, especially one that is so comparatively small in light of the many needs of poor countries and oppressed people? He promises, and He means it.

Sometimes it takes being needy to bring me to my knees. This is where God reminds me that grace is not just about Christmas. Grace is for every day.

3 comments:

  1. I love hearing stories like these - God using His people to bless each other. It makes me realize that I ought to be more attentive to His promptings and look for opportunities to be of help. It is easy for me to become so self-absorbed sometimes.
    I hope you're feeling better! Wish we were neighbors again - I'd bring you dinner! :)

    ReplyDelete
  2. Thanks Zoe! I love too, the thought that God wanted to abundantly bless me by answering even my secret wish for help. It just bowls me over, His goodness, time and time again.

    ReplyDelete
  3. You have been that friend to me when I was in need. I will always appreciate that... thanks!

    ReplyDelete