Violets of Grace

Grace! what a packed word. There is so much to say about this small 5 letter word that there have been volumes written about it.

It is something we desire at our most basic level. It encompasses so many aspects and emotions, events and circumstances. It can really be anything. it has only one criteria to fulfill to be grace, it is something we receive that we don't deserve.

As a very flawed (broken) human being with a number of years behind me to which I have perfected my flaws, I can speak to receiving grace in my life.

I can look back and see clearly (hindsight is 20/20) the different occasions in my life that I received grace. Unfortunately, many times it isnt until I do look back that I recognize it as grace.

As a follower of Jesus, I know that Papa has extended grace to me each day. the most profound gift of His grace is becoming his child. It cost me nothing but Him everything. Eph 2:8 tells me this is Papa gift to me.

In looking back at my life, I can see and point to His grace gifts. They are usually large and meet the needs I am facing at the time. These are wonderful beyond words. Often, we call these gifts "mountain top experiences". Where God showed up!

But what about the everyday grind? The days I am just doing chores around the house, and I never get out of my Pajamas. Days when my husband calls to give me bad news that is happening at work. Days when circumstances find me downward spiraling. Or the days I am so busy and never stop to even say "Hi Papa." Where is Gods grace there?

I am learning in my older age to ask Papa for a fresh perspective. To open the eyes of my heart and mind and spirit to see Him. To see Him in how he causes violets to grow all over my back lawn because He knows they make me smile. When I walk the beach and discover the most beautiful shell. When I receive at text from a sweet friend telling me that I have become her Chemo security blanket. I call an old friend and we reminisce about past adventures and crazy antics. I remember how she welcomed me into that old college and careers group we joined so many years ago.

These are Papa's gifts of grace to me. I think about how I felt the first time I walked out into our back yard that first year of living here that I discovered those violets growing everywhere. Surprise with joy! How wonderful they smelt. That crazy excitement of finding that shell on the beach and taking pictures to share with others of this rare beauty. The emotions of being privileged to be called my friends "Chemo

security blanket" and being overwhelmed at having the privilege to do that for her. Of the joy found in an old friend who I never have to explain myself to because we understand each other so well. The gratitude I have for her reaching out to me all those long years ago.

These are Papa's gifts of grace. I receive these daily from Him who loves me and pursues me at every turn. Yes, as a follower of Jesus I have His precious gift of grace, Himself. As his daughter I have all the smaller gifts of grace. I just need to have my heart open and be willing to receive them.