The Spread of Grace
 
So, what is God calling the Church to do regarding grace in the DMV area? Will we fall in line with the popular attitude of “make your own breaks” or will we be known for extending grace to America’s most forgotten? 
 
If you know anything about Journey’s Crossing, you know that this group of Christ-followers is constantly seeking to show grace to the needy of all varieties, both in the U.S. and abroad.Remarkably, when the church calls for volunteers during special events to demonstrate grace, the positions are usually filled to overflowing.
 
We can all celebrate being part of a church that cares, that understands Jesus is grace. Yet, we also need to ask if it is enough, in light of the enormous spiritual and emotional needs around us and the eroding economic status of many both within and without the church.
 
Look around your neighborhood, your social network, your children’s networks. Take a drive through some of MoCo’s less posh neighborhoods. Visit a seniors’ center. Inquire about contacting inmates in a jail or prison. Write to a non-profit organization that helps the physically challenged. Find out who is helping refugees settle in MoCo. Where would Jesus be? What can the church do?
 
Nothing in the Bible says that His people should be reactive in showing grace, always waiting for the staff to create events and propose ideas for being the hands and feet of Jesus in MoCo. The Church is much stronger when people like us (sometimes more in touch with needs around us than staff members are), envision new ministries to show Christ’s grace to our region.
 
Take some time in the next few weeks to brainstorm with your family or small group on how Christ’s grace can be more widely extended to MoCo’s people. The groups of people mentioned in yesterday’s devotion would be a good place to start: the poor, the physically challenged, the oppressed, the imprisoned. 
 
Can Journey’s Crossing do an even better job of showing God’s love to the undeserving? How can you make that happen? What’s your idea?
 
Prayer: Lord, thank You for a church like Journey’s Crossing, a church that cares. How do you want me to get involved? Use me to incite others to show grace in our church.