Devotion for June 18, 2009: “The Priority of Grace”

Ephesians 2:8-9

“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast. ^“

 

This familiar verse was written by the Apostle Paul to remind us of God’s all encompassing work in Salvation.  Jesus did it all!  We are just to accept that gift that God gives us through grace.  Grace is that unearned, unmerited favor that God pours out upon us.

There is the story I have adapted about a very wealthy man who loved his only son dearly.  The son went off to war as a soldier.  While in the battle zone, a fellow soldier painted his portrait and several other portraits to pass the time between fighting.  The son was killed in battle, and the friend mailed the portrait to the father as a comfort.  The father treasured this painting of his only son more than any painting in his vast collection of art.  After some time the father died.  In the settlement of the estate with no heir apparent a great auction of his artwork was planned.  Rich art collectors from all over the world gathered.  The young man who painted the son’s portrait came just to see if his painting sold.  The auctioneer opened the auction by bringing out the son’s portrait.  “The stipulations of the will says that this portrait is to be the first item sold,” said the auctioneer. “Now who will give me 10 million dollars for it.”  A chuckle went around the room as bidders murmured about waiting for the real art.  “Okay then, 5 million.”  No one bid.  The auctioneer continued to lower the bid with no takers.  Everyone was waiting for the good stuff.  “How about 100 dollars?” the auctioneer pleaded.  Still no takers.  “A final request for a bid of twenty-five dollars,” the auctioneer cried.  The young man who had painted the portrait could stand it no longer and cried out, “I will give twenty-five dollars for my friend.”  “Sold!” the auctioneer cried but surprised everyone by adding, “The auction now is closed.  You see the provisions of the will state that whoever chooses the son receives everything.”

Grace is God providing us with everything because of His son Jesus.

QUESTIONS:

1. How would you define grace?
2. How has God shown you grace?
3. Have you thanked God for His grace gifts to you?