Sometimes, I don't like people much. It's because I often see them at their worst, especially where I live, here on earth; if you get what I mean?which is like the center of a big argument. Occasionally, the best part of a journey lies outside the realm of meticulously laid plans. It's those serendipitous, unexpected encounters that define the essence of travel, moments when you must be open to the profound truth of grace. Just like in life, where my musings on age and growth align with the teachings of Paul's Epistle to the Romans, these unscripted experiences enrich our existence and expand our understanding of the world around us.
Every day, I pick out colorful sports-related clothes from my closet that represent my interests as a Broncos or Iowa State fan. But soon, I realized that there are bigger problems our country and the world face. It's easy to get caught up in our favorite sports teams, cheering for them, and feeling connected to fellow fans. But as I delve into the world of politics and public discourse, I see that there are issues that go beyond the games we love.
While I still proudly wear my Broncos or Iowa State gear, I've come to understand that there are issues like healthcare,war, the environment, and social issues that affect millions of lives. These issues are far more significant than any game or sports rivalry. It's essential to remember that we can be passionate about our interests while also caring about the well-being of our society as a whole.
In this complex world, grace becomes even more crucial. It's about being kind not only to those who share our sports enthusiasm but also to those with different opinions and concerns. Grace reminds us that there's room for understanding and empathy, even when we're passionate about our own interests.
So, while I still proudly support my Broncos and Iowa State, I also strive to extend grace to those who may not share my sports loyalties or political viewpoints. Because in the end, we're all part of a bigger team called humanity, and it's through acts of grace that we can work together to tackle the significant challenges we face.
People often think in a simple way, like putting things into two groups: good or bad. We like to argue and fight about these groups, which makes it really hard to talk about things that make people disagree, and nowadays, almost everything causes arguments. Even something like grace, which is about being kind.
Grace is like being nice, even when you don't have to. It's easy to be nice to people who are like us or who are nice to us. But it's a real test of grace to be kind to people who make us angry or upset.
In the middle of all the arguing and fighting in politics, grace is like a light in the dark. It reminds us that behind the arguing, there are people who have their own problems and worries. We're all not perfect, and being kind and understanding can help even when we have different opinions.
As Sugar Bear, I've seen moments of grace in surprising places. I've seen politicians who disagree a lot still find ways to work together. I've met people who are mad but still talk calmly.
I've engaged in challenging dialogues with atheists, yet ultimately, we found common ground through prayer. These individuals are like stars in the night sky, showing us that even in hard times, there's still goodness.
Grace is also about being nice to ourselves. It's easy to be hard on ourselves when we make mistakes, especially when we want to be perfect. But grace is about being gentle with ourselves, learning from our mistakes, and knowing that we deserve love and forgiveness, just like anyone else.
Grace doesn't mean ignoring when someone does something wrong. It means choosing to respond with love, even when it's hard. It's about seeing the good in others and in ourselves.
Paul’s Epistle to the Romans holds significance in elucidating God's mercies and our expected response. In Romans 1—3:20, Paul illustrates how all individuals fall short of God's standards, displaying unrighteousness and necessitating His grace. In Romans 3:21—4:25, he delves into God's expression of grace through the gospel. Romans 5-8 elaborates on the results of this grace in salvation through Jesus Christ for believers.
This is why Paul proudly proclaims his lack of shame in the gospel, as it intertwines with my serendipitous reflections on aging.
Through God's grace and Jesus's sacrificial blood, we are liberated from the bondage of sin and free to live in Christ (Romans 6:6–8).
So, as I keep working in the world of politics, I try to remember how important grace is. Behind the fights and the headlines, there are people who want a better world. And by being kind, we can make things better, even when we don't agree.
In a world that can be tough and divided, let's be the ones who show grace, who choose love and understanding over anger and judgment. That's how we can find healing, unity, and a brighter future for everyone.
God bless You and This Ministry!
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