Since returing from Europe (yes, we got back safely, thanks to the grace of God and many prayers--thanks!), I've been busier that the proverbial one-armed paper hanger, as conference season looms ahead of me.  (If you've developed a habit of prayer for me, THANKS, and keep up the good work!  I really need it!)

I've been in Ephesisans lately, preaching the gospel to myself daily because I need it so desperately.  My sin is ever before me, and I would sink into the slough of despond if I didn't have the Dear Old Story to remind me that it's all about Him!

In verse 2 of chapter 1, Paul opens his letter with this: "Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ."  I've been camped here for days.  Isn't that the perfect thing to wish someone whenever you greet them?  How would the world be if, from our hearts, we could wish that those we meet would have grace and peace?

Grace: that sweet forgiveness that we don't deserve but desperately need.  Grace: that free gift from God to us through Jesus, that we can now turn and freely give to others.  Grace: that balm that heals all the wounds we give each other.  Grace: the only godly way you'll deal with the difficult person in your life.  Grace: the only way you'll keep from being the difficult person in the lives of others!

And peace!  Peace with God.  Peace with eachother.  Peace in our hearts: an absence of anxiety, striving, worry, stress, fears, doubts, and cares.  Peace like a river that washes our careworn, tired souls and makes us freshly amazed at grace.  Who doesn't need a wish for peace?

As I've been meditating this way, it's helped me.  I find that I naturally tend to judge others around me, or become easily impatient.  Schooling myself to wish them nothing but grace and peace has given me much joy.  I bet it's made me sweeter to live with, too!

So, from me to you today, "Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ."