Uncomfortable grace was a phrase penned by Pastor and author Alistair Begg. It caused me to think on what makes grace uncomfortable.
Grace becomes uncomfortable when we apply the grace we have received to others who are in need of grace.
Grace becomes uncomfortable when we extend love the unloveable.
Grace becomes uncomfortable when we show kindness to those you are acting unkindly.
Grace becomes uncomfortable when we embrace the less than desirable.
Grace becomes uncomfortable every time we take Jesus at his word and do what he says.
Each of us appreciates the reality of grace when it comes to us. We gratefully and graciously accept it. We are humbled that such should be extended our way. When we fully grasp its wonder we are at the threshold of genuine freedom. We are released from striving to earn God’s favor.
Begg also said, “No matter what we may do…we are only and ever favored by God through sheer grace on His part. You have no other standing, and you need no other.”
Grace extended to us is desirable. The rub comes when we realize the grace given to us ought also be given to others. This is what makes it uncomfortable.
The fulness of grace is not experienced in its acceptance. The fulness of grace is heightened when we share it with others. When we are a conduit of grace, not just a receptor, the full nature of being a person under grace is realized.