Out of his fullness we have all received grace in place of grace already given. For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. John 1:16-17 (NIVUK)
The law sets out boundaries to stay within. It governs our behaviour. Having certainty abouts its boundaries and borders helps us to help others operate within the law and gives us personal reassurance. This far but no further.
Jesus is full of grace and truth (v14). Full, not just up to the line, but overflowing so that it pours out on all. And out of his fullness we have all received grace. Not a reward available to a ‘deserving’ few, but already received by all; saturating the undeserving.
Where are my boundaries when it comes to colleagues, clients and third parties I find challenging or graceless? When it comes to generosity, forgiveness, patience, repentance, compassion, love, is my witness one of law - this far but no further? Is it one of grace already received?
On one occasion, anguished by another’s transgression of boundaries, God in his mercy showed me a glimpse of his love for that person. It displaced everything else. It overwhelmed. I may find comfort in boundaries, but I’ve not understood the fullness of his grace if at any time I think it has a constraint. Blessing upon blessing. Gift upon gift. Mercy upon mercy. Grace upon grace.
Pause to consider the unconstrained fullness of Jesus’ grace. Are there resentments I have that I need to stop clinging to?
Lord Jesus, out of the fullness of your grace and truth, help me radiate to others the grace that you have already given.
