Reconciling GraceSample

Loving Grace

At first glance, this passage may seem to indicate that it’s our faith that leads to our justification and peace with God. But in reality, we know that it is only through God’s grace that we enter into God’s presence and stand before him. Through God’s favor, we are able to have faith, be at peace in all circumstances, and grow as Christians.

The amazing thing about God’s grace is that it has no limits and knows no boundaries. The grace of God can reach all corners of the earth and penetrate the life of every person. That means God’s grace may be found in places where it might be least expected, like prison. Many people may believe that prisoners are undeserving of God’s grace, and I agree—because every one of us is undeserving.

In his epistles, Paul often greets his recipients with the words, “grace to you and peace from God,” indicating that grace and peace go together. I have been in prison for seventeen years. In spite of the daily hardships I face, I am blessed with peace. Because of God’s grace upon my life, I am able to find peace within myself, with others, and most importantly, with God. It is God’s grace and peace that allows me to persevere in adversity and draws me nearer to him. God’s grace and peace find us in the deepest pits of prison.

He can also find you in your life, wherever you are. God’s saving grace is available to you. Let us accept that grace and the gifts of faith, justification, hope, peace, and strength it brings.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank you so much for your precious grace that provides us with everything that we need to be sustained in life and in our relationship with you. You bestow your grace upon us indiscriminately. Deliver us from our blindness and our stubbornness that prevent us from accepting you. Bless us with your peace. We need you, Lord, especially in our tribulations, because we trust and believe that your grace and peace will see us through all adversities. In Jesus’s precious name, AMEN.

Author

Benny Rios is committed to writing and having his voice heard beyond the prison and has published work in scholarly venues. He is devoted to his wife, Melissa, and his daughters. Benny loves being part of the beloved community at Stateville and beyond.