We often discuss grace in various circumstances and situations, but what exactly is Divine Grace, and how does it impact our lives?
As a child, the first time I recall hearing about grace was through the Catholic prayer, “Hail Mary, full of grace …” Of course, I had no idea what that meant, but I was sure it made Mary a very important person!
In some circles, grace is like a ‘get out of jail free’ card!
Being curious as I am, I looked up Divine Grace in Wikipedia:
Divine grace is a theological term present in many religions. It has been defined as the divine influence which operates in humans to regenerate and sanctify, to inspire virtuous impulses, and to impart strength to endure trial and resist temptation; and as an individual virtue or excellence of divine origin.
Divine grace, as described in the definition, seems to be the presence of God within.
Rev. Juan del Hierro, in his article in Unity’s booklet, Mindful Moments, wonderfully describes divine grace:
Grace is the experience of love even when I do not feel lovable. Grace is the experience of peace even in times of chaos and hardship. Grace is the very fact that although I may try to shut God out of my life, God is a constant, unmovable, and unchangeable Truth.
Grace, then, is not only the presence of God within, but also the acknowledgment of that presence — even when life is challenging.
Forgiveness, too, is a form of grace. When we decide to let go of anger or resentment, we allow grace to fill those spaces in our hearts. Of course, this also includes forgiving ourselves, which is often the person we need to forgive the most.
Despite old teaching, we don’t just receive grace from God/Spirit, but we allow grace to flow through us. I see this as a way to slowly change the world, one person at a time.
Rev. Juan concludes his article with the following:
Grace calls me to rise into the awareness that I am not separate from God. I am an expression of God’s love. It is a sacred invitation, not only to recognize the grace that sustains me but to become a living testament to it. And in that, I find grace.
Maybe if everyone opened their heart a bit wider to embrace divine grace, we would have a more peaceful world! Can you join me in spreading divine grace in the world?