Once you were dead because of your disobedience and your many sins. You used to live in sin, just like the rest of the world, obeying the devil—the commander of the powers in the unseen world. He is the spirit at work in the hearts of those who refuse to obey God. All of us used to live that way, following the passionate desires and inclinations of our sinful nature. By our very nature we were subject to God’s anger, just like everyone else. But God is so rich in mercy, and he loved us so much, that even though we were dead because of our sins, he gave us life when he raised Christ from the dead. (It is only by God’s grace that you have been saved!) For he raised us from the dead along with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ Jesus. So God can point to us in all future ages as examples of the incredible wealth of his grace and kindness toward us, as shown in all he has done for us who are united with Christ Jesus. God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it. For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.

Ephesians 2:1-10

Dear God, there is a disconnect between what I know your grace has done for me and the lack of sharing that news that I do. Why don’t I tell other people about it more? Why don’t I encourage them to make the same decisions I have and embrace your forgiveness and freedom?

Sometimes I’ve wondered if I would be bolder if I felt I had more of a story to tell. Having pretty much grown up in the church and not really gone through a BIG rebellious stage, embracing your love and grace and submitting to you was really more about experiencing your joy and peace than receiving forgiveness for a debaucherous or hedonistic life. Am I afraid that my lack of story doesn’t give me the right to speak into someone else’s life? Have you given me a different calling? Am I missing your desires for me in all of this, or am I doing what you have uniquely called me to do?

Father, at the end of the day I think I am doing a lot of things that are good, but I am still missing so much. I must do better. I must share your love more. I must be your ambassador to everyone I meet and not just those with whom I am more comfortable. Forgive me for being weak in this area and open my eyes so that I can see the opportunities for sharing your love that you bring to me.

In Jesus’ name I pray,

Amen