In Jesus, we have peace with God, and we stand in grace, exulting in the hope of the glory of God (see vs. 1-2). This grace is so profound that we are enabled to “also exult in our tribulations” (vs. 3). Our lives are filled to overflowing with the very life of God in Christ Jesus. Nothing in our lives is beyond the range of grace. On the mountain or in the valley, God is with us. With king David we, too, proclaim, “The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need” (Psalm 23:1, NLT).
In Jesus we are caught up in an ongoing process of growth that takes us deeper and deeper into the marvelous wonder of God. Paul says,
We… exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us. (vss. 3-5)
As the people of Jesus we live, knowing that “the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit.” Love is the state in which we live. Nothing that happens there can undo the grace and mercy of God. Tribulations come (don’t we know it well) but somehow God sweeps them up into His Sovereign and holy power, and uses them to shape and mold us into more than we could ever dream we might be. Tribulation brings about perseverance. Perseverance brings about proven character. Proven character brings about hope. Hope never disappoints because the never-disappointing and always marvelous love of God embraces us to His heart, and holds us steady.
Understanding the grace of God is quite an undertaking. Grace begins when it doesn’t have that much to work with. Paul says, “God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us” (vs. 8). That’s remarkable, isn’t it. Before we even know we need God, God comes to us. In Jesus we are reconciled to God. God takes the initiative. God reaches out to us. God takes us where we are and leads us forward. He doesn’t leave us where He finds us. He draws us to His heart, pours His love into us, and makes a place for us at His forever table. Who would have thought it?
On this Third Sunday in Lent, may we realize again that at the heart of our faith there is a Savior who died, but who was raised again, showing us that nothing can hold back the grace of God.
Amazing grace, how sweet the sound
that saved a wretch like me.
I once was lost, but now am found;
was blind but now I see.
- John Newton, 1779
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