Journey to the Cross
“Grace is the gift of God’s presence within us, calling us to be whole.”
– attributed to Henri Nouwen
God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him won’t perish but will have eternal life. God didn’t send his Son into the world to judge the world, but that the world might be saved through him.
John 3:16-17
These familiar words remind us of the heart of grace. God loves the world deeply and completely. That love is not about judgment or condemnation. It is about rescue, healing, and life.
Accepting grace means believing that this love includes us. It means trusting that we are seen, known, and cherished by God. Sometimes we hold back, thinking we must be better or stronger before we are worthy of love. But grace says otherwise. Grace meets us exactly where we are. God’s love comes to bring life, not to weigh us down with fear. When we accept that truth, we begin to live differently. We carry hope. We share kindness. We remember that we are loved and so is everyone around us. God’s love is for all. It’s a love that calls us not to condemn or judge others but to offer care and compassion. It’s a love that calls us to help each other thrive.

Todd Buegler
Question to Ponder:
How can you offer kindness and care to someone this week?
God of love, thank you for the gift of Jesus. Help me receive your grace fully. Let your love shape the way I live. Amen.
Go into this day trusting that God’s grace surrounds you, goes before you, and lives within you. Receive it and share it freely.
