Grace Can Do So Much

5 Apr

“Be like water making its way through cracks. Do not be assertive, but adjust to the object, and you shall find a way around or through it. If nothing within you stays rigid, outward things will disclose themselves.”  ~ Bruce Lee

We are hemmed in by the world.  As Christians, we are supposed to be making an impact on the world and yet we often feel frustrated because all that we say or do doesn’t seem to be getting anywhere.  Maybe we are being too forceful in those times.

We cannot force the Kingdom down anyone’s throats.  We cannot force anyone to repent.  We cannot force anyone to change.  No.  The best we can do is to invite them to repent and accept all that Jesus has to offer them and to show them by our own example that we believe the Kingdom to be valuable.

If we use flowery words and phrases but live firmly rooted in the world, we are going to set the wrong example.  If, instead, we embody the values and virtues of Jesus and live rooted in the Kingdom, we can do so much good and influence so many people to embrace the Lord.

Lee tells us not to be assertive but, instead, to be passive, like water. I like that image since we talk about the Baptismal Waters of Redemption.  Let the waters of New Life, which flow in you, flow through you as well.  Be a gentle example to others and let the waters of God’s grace flow through your cracks and permeate their cracks.  Grace can do so much for so many!

FAITH ACTION:  Ask God to help you to remain open to all of the possibilities around you.