Nothing is more repugnant to capable, reasonable people than grace. – John Wesley
God often loves us with gifts we thought we didn’t need, which transform us into people we don’t necessarily want to be. With our advanced degrees, armies, government programs, material comforts and self-fulfillment techniques, we assume that religion is about giving a little of our power in order to confirm to ourselves that we are indeed as self-sufficient as we claim.
Then this stranger comes to us, blesses us with a gift, and calls us to see ourselves as we are – empty-handed recipients of a gracious God who, rather than leave us to our own devices, gave us a baby.
– William Willimon
the gift of generosity and compassion,
the gift of humility, of trust, of joy.
Pray for the gift of gentleness,
the gift of a healing spirit.
Put the gifts you want for Christmas
on your list, and let God know.
Think of them as you’re shopping.
Ask deliberately for them,
and they will come,
secretly, in the night.
For Christ will come
and find shelter in your heart,
whether or not you leave milk and cookies.
And even though I’ve promised,
you’ll still be surprised.
Steve Garnaas-Holmes
Unfolding Light
http://www.unfoldinglight.net
life: acoustic & amplified 