September 11, 2001
Hurricane Katrina
2009 NCAA Basketball Championship Game
Last week in Newtown Connecticut
When all of these events occurred I can be found on my couch glued to the TV, watching and waiting on the next interview, update, or the next breaking news. My first reaction to the school shootings in Newtown was probably no different than yours.
Anger
Unbelievable
How Could Someone Do That
How Could We Let Someone Do That
After the feelings of disbelief and anger had settled my next reaction was PURE GRACE. I wish my first thought and feeling and reaction would have been grace, love, and forgiveness. I believe that everyone has been touched by God's grace. You may can look back at a time in your life when you have experienced God's grace. Or you may not even believe in God's grace, but I believe that you have proof of His grace in your life. The proof is this...
YOU AND I ARE STILL ALIVE
That is the only proof needed to show the love, grace, and mercy that God has poured out on our lives.
As For The Shooter
There's a story in the Bible when Jesus washes his disciples feet (most people know it well). The first thing we learn from this story is that we are here to serve people. If we want to become like Jesus it is upon us to serve the people around us. But if we look a little closer at the feet that Jesus was washing I think we can learn something else about GRACE.
Philip (one of the disciples) - When Jesus told the disciples to feed the 5,000 he basically said, "That's Impossible" (John 6:7)
James and John lobbied to be able to sit beside the Father in heaven.
Peter quit trusting Jesus and denied him before his crucifixion (Jesus new this would happen before it did).
Judas turned Jesus into the police for some money.
Jesus pours his grace out upon everybody. Doesn't matter your background, decision, family, job, social status, etc... You have received God's grace. Why do I feel I have the right to withhold grace from you or a murderer that killed kindergarten students. I'm not saying there should be no punishment. Grace is not blind, grace can see clearer than our own 2 eyes can. However, graces chooses forgiveness over anger, hatred, and unforgiveness every time.
To Accept Grace Is To Accept The Vow To Give It.
-Max Lucado
