 Reading: Ephesians 2:4-10
'But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. ' -Ephesians 2:4-10 The man at the pool didn't earn his healing; it was a gift of God's grace. Similarly, our salvation and the blessings we receive are not based on our merit but on God's goodness. Paul reminds us in Ephesians that it is by grace we have been saved, through faith. This grace, however, calls for a response. Jesus told the man to "Get up, pick up your mat and walk" – an act of obedience that demonstrated his faith. Today, reflect on the unearned grace God has shown you. How can you respond to His grace with obedience? Consider areas in your life where God may be calling you to "get up and walk" – to take action in faith. Remember, we are God's workmanship, created for good works. Let your life be a grateful response to His amazing grace. |