But to each one of us grace was given according to the measure of Christ’s gift.
Ephesians 4:7
Grace by definition is God’s undeserved favor. It is not earned by good behavior or by notable acts of kindness. In fact, it is simply a gift.
At Christmas time we all give and receive gifts but in most all cases these gifts are not deserved. (Except in the case of Santa Claus, so you better watch out!). The gifts are given but they are of no value unless they are received (opened) and put to use in our lives. So if God’s grace is a gift, your only action is to be open to receive His gift.
According to Ephesians 2:8-9 we are saved by grace and it is a gift from God… but that salvation is not realized until we accept the gift. Grace is not only a gift for salvation but it is a gift that continually works in our lives to motivate us to do the things God has created us to do. All of our service to God is done by His grace. All of our acts of kindness are done by His grace. That same scripture says that none of this is by our works. So in reality, His grace is what saves us, keeps us and motivates us to do God’s work on this planet.
Maybe this Christmas season you can give the greatest gift of Jesus love by showing grace (unmerited favor) to others. His grace will change their lives forever.
“And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of Grace and truth… For of His fullness we have all received, and grace upon grace. For the Law was given through Moses; grace and truth were realized through Jesus Christ.”
John 1:14, 16-17