What does it mean to have grace?

Grace is a gift. If you are the recipient of grace, it simply means you have the favor of God on your life.

Merriam-Webster defines a person having grace to be one with “a controlled, polite, and pleasant way of behaving.” To the world, it is a way of carrying oneself. It is seen as a trait that plays out in your actions.

God’s grace in our lives should be evident. It is a gift given, not out of anything we could possibly do to deserve it, but freely because God chose to give. That’s it. But that doesn’t mean things don’t change once the gift is given.

If we fully comprehend the grace of God, then how can we not be changed?

Let’s simplify it. Say you are given a car, just because someone wanted to give you a car. Until this point you’ve never owned one. Instead, you’ve bummed rides, walked and taken the bus everywhere you go. There are no strings attached to this gift, no repercussions if you don’t drive it, and no need to pay back the favor or even tell anyone who gave it to you. Will you let the car sit in your garage unused and hidden from view? Will you continue to take the public bus to work or live your life exactly the same? Of course not! You are going to learn how to drive that car, tell everyone about the amazing person who gave it to you and find the freedom that only comes with having your own transportation.

God’s grace is so much bigger than the gift of a car.

Grace is an unmerited gift given to you that changes everything. Grace gives us a seat at the table with God. It welcomes us into a family and a community that is centered on love and generosity. Why wouldn’t it be? After all, God’s grace is the biggest gift ever given. It is salvation and community with Him. It is an invitation to take part in the purpose for which we were all created and to be in fellowship with the God of the universe.

To have grace is simply to live into the understanding and let your life overflow with the blessings and favor that God has given you.

At Centerpoint, we are breaking down every barrier that keeps people from the love of God. We don’t shy away from the hard questions. No matter where you are in your faith journey, you are welcome to join us! Atheist, agnostic or Jesus-follower, there is a seat for you at our table.