Understanding the Shape of Grace

Have you ever pondered how your life tells a story? Every moment, every challenge, and every act of love, shape the narrative of our existence. The recent sermon at Knox Evangelical Church centered on the profound theme of grace, illustrated through the biblical account of the man born blind in John 9:1-25. The speaker skillfully painted a picture of how our lives operate within the framework of God’s grace, inviting us to reflect on the narratives we tell.

In John 9:1-3, Jesus encounters a blind man. His disciples question whether the man’s blindness is due to sin. Jesus replies, “Neither hath this man sinned, nor his parents: but that the works of God should be made manifest in him.” This powerful statement reveals that our struggles often serve a greater purpose, reflecting God’s glory—an ever-relevant lesson in our own lives.

As the speaker noted, our brains are constantly filtering the vast array of information we encounter each day. He shared a compelling analogy: the difficulty of noticing a ticking clock until it becomes loud enough to command our attention. This mirrors our spiritual journeys, where God’s presence might be overlooked amid life’s noise. The prophet Isaiah reminds us in Isaiah 6:3, “Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord of hosts: the whole earth is full of his glory.” The depth of God’s glory surrounds us, waiting to shift our perspectives.

The sermon explored how art can help us make sense of our experiences. Each piece of art tells a story, much like our lives. The speaker asked us to consider how we narrate our everyday challenges. For instance, when recounting a tough day at work, we might find ourselves focusing on a pivotal moment—perhaps navigating through unexpected traffic—rather than merely stating the mundane details of our tasks. Our stories should reflect God’s grace, highlighting growth, overcoming adversity, and the beauty found in our trials.

Moreover, the sermon drew parallels between life’s narratives and the stories encapsulated in literature. The speaker referenced C.S. Lewis, suggesting that even secular tales often echo the shape of grace—a narrative of conflict, struggle, and ultimately, redemption. He showcased this by analyzing popular stories, illustrating how they resemble the love and sacrifice depicted in Jesus’ story. Discernment becomes essential as we engage with cultural narratives, recognizing the themes of grace cloaked within them.

The blind man’s experience serves as a blueprint for understanding redemption. Despite skepticism from those around him and pressures to conform to societal norms, he declares, “One thing I know, that, whereas I was blind, now I see.” (John 9:25). This simple yet profound testimony illustrates a life transformed by grace.

As we navigate our own stories, what will we choose to highlight? Will we focus on struggles or the grace that underpins them? The speaker encouraged us to actively seek the hints of God’s glory in our lives, making our daily narratives align with the shape of the Gospel. We are invited to participate in God’s ongoing story, learning to view our hardships through the lens of grace, inviting healing and transformation.

As we reflect on this message, let us engage in prayer, asking God to open our eyes to the beauty present within our challenges. As we tell our stories, let them embody the grace we have received, encouraging not just ourselves but those around us.

If you seek a nurturing community to explore these themes further, we warmly invite you to visit Knox Evangelical Church, located in Old Strathcona just north of Whyte Avenue in Edmonton. Don’t forget to check the Knox Event Calendar for upcoming gatherings and opportunities for fellowship. Together, let’s share in the stories of grace that God is weaving into our lives.