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Listen while you read: "Gentle Jesus Meek And Mild"1 (Lyrics) |
1 Corinthians 15:10a – But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace to me was not without effect. (NIV)
On Sunday mornings, I get to experience one of the best views in church from the pulpit. I see the entire worshipping congregation, and as I scan the people in the pews, I think about their struggles and stories and about how the amazing grace of God has been and is still working in their lives.
I see people who are grieving the loss of loved ones, but in the midst of their heartache, they still hold on to the love of God.
I see folks who are undergoing serious medical tests or recovering from surgery, who have placed their prayers and their lives into God's healing hands.
I see parents who are bringing up their kids in the best ways that they can, nurturing them in the Christian faith, and depending on God to provide them with encouragement and support.
I see people whose marriages are crumbling, and they are struggling to maintain a sense of identity and security, praying to God for help and guidance.
I see single people who devote much of their time to the well-being of others, serving God in the missions and programs of our church.
I see college students whose dreams are only just beginning and whose hard work and determination will bring about what they seek to do with their lives and how they can serve God in the world.
I see young people who are still at school, trying to do the best that they can and experiencing many new things in life. They still have that beautiful wonder of God and life which encourages and delights the whole church.
I see and hear the infants, toddlers, and babies in our church, and my heart is glad that they can find an extended loving family here.
I see the grace of God in all of these things and in all of these good people, and it humbles me. The grace of God is evident in all of our lives and it is constantly amazing.
Questions for personal reflection:
How do I experience the grace of God in my life? Where do I see it existing in the lives of others?
Prayer: Loving God, Your grace is amazing and we are constantly astounded by its presence in our lives. Sustain our wonder of Your works and our love of our Lord. Be with us and bless all our loved ones this day. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
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Good devotional John. God bless.
Your vision is evidently inspired by the Hoy Spirit.
Thanks be to God that you are still alive, and from what He has saved you from and for!
Dear Sir,
God bless you for keeping our thoughts in check.
John
It is amazing — I swear I have read it before — But it is a goodie. Thanks.
You always write the most wonderful messages for us all out here in computer land. I am very happy to read your homilies. Blessings to you.
Dear John;
Thank you for seeing and reminding us that God’s amazing grace is within each and everyone of us.
John,
I see many of your writings, sharings.
Thanks for today’s especially. The insight of a pastor’s view was encouraging.
(CA)
What a blessed privilege! I’m retired now but I prayed constantly that I would remember that all those people were out there each time I walked into the pulpit and that I would never forget that, except for the grace of God, I had no right to be preaching His Word to any of them.
Dear Rev. Stuart:
Thank you for your encouraging words. My daughter passed away very recently.
With the loving help from God, and His arms around me, each day is a little better.
With blessings.
Amazing indeed how the Hand of God touches so many lives and assures them He will never leave nor forsake them through thick and thin. Over and over again, we who serve the risen Lord are aware of His amazing Grace and are so blessed by His never ending faithfulness to those we serve and love.
Thank you for reminding us how very steadfast and faithful our Lord is.
Dear John
Thank you! I do not see our congregation from the pulpit like you, in our church — my brother-in-law has that privilege. I am one of the coffee ladies and talk to people before and after service while they are getting their coffee and tea. I belong to a small church, so we know each other well. At least half of those attending each Sunday are children.
John
Your devotionals always strike a chord for me.
Grace beyond measure, so rich and priceless, yet free.
Blessings John.