The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.
John 1:14 (NIV)
What a rich scripture this is!
Jesus – God made flesh. Living with us. Showing His glory. Setting an inspired example by His grace and truthfulness. And, of course, His love for all of us.
There are so many positive influences and changes that reshape the character of the person who believes and chooses to get to know Jesus on an intimate, day-to-day basis. Some of the qualities of the Lord’s persona that will impact devoted believers are a greater awareness of humility, compassion, grace, charity and truth-seeking.
Let’s take a look at one of these … grace.
“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.” Matthew 6:14 (NIV)
Matthew 6:14 is the scripture that follows immediately after Jesus tells us how to pray (the Lord’s Prayer) “Our Father in heaven, …” He places a clear focus on the link between forgiveness and grace. If we make the decision to forgive someone who has sinned against us, then we can be certain that God forgives us in our own shortcomings.
“Amazing grace, You give to me.
Sometimes I fall. You rescue me.”
“How Great You Are.” (lyrics by Dusty Wiggins)
Why grace? This is easy to understand. Jesus said, “If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.” 1 John 1:8 (ESV) Many of the qualities mentioned earlier work together in the earnest pursuit of a spirit-lead life.
Humility keeps us from developing an inflated ego that would tell us we’re somehow better than others.
Compassion gives us a sensitivity to others.
Grace is the action … to forgive and be forgiven.
Charity is freely giving to others without expecting anything in return.
Love is the ultimate healer.
Our Father, Wonderful Counselor. May this week mark a new beginning in our devotion to You. We want to increase Your influence in our lives. Show us those around us who are hurting and need help. We pray Your virtues will become revelation to us and how we treat others. Amen.