God’s Transformative Love
Chris Cahill · 2 min read · First published 2024-04-29
Being loved and becoming more loving belong close together in this reflection. Let us consider grace as something we receive and something our neighbors can experience through us.
A place to begin
C.S. Lewis’s words have a way of piercing through the complexities of faith, illuminating truths that resonate deep within our souls. One such gem of wisdom is found in his profound statement: "The Christian does not think God will love us because we are good, but that God will make us good because he loves us."
At its core, this quote encapsulates the essence of the Gospel message—a message of grace, redemption, and transformation. It challenges the notion that our worthiness before God is based on our own merits or actions. Instead, it declares that God's love for us is unconditional, unearned, and unchanging. It is not contingent upon our goodness but is a freely given gift, lavished upon us because of His boundless love.
This truth finds resonance in Scripture, where we are reminded of God's relentless pursuit of His people and His desire to transform us from the inside out. In Romans 5:8, we read, "But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us" (NIV). This verse underscores the reality that God's love is not dependent on our righteousness but is extended to us even in our brokenness and rebellion.
Reading with care
Furthermore, Ephesians 2:8-9 affirms this principle of grace: "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast" (NIV). Our salvation is not the result of our own efforts or goodness but is solely a product of God's grace, received through faith in His Son, Jesus Christ.
As we reflect on Lewis's words and the biblical truths they convey, we are invited into a deeper understanding of God's love and its transformative power in our lives. It is His love that compels us to pursue righteousness, not out of obligation or fear, but out of gratitude for the incredible gift we have received. It is His love that empowers us to overcome sin and live lives that honor Him.
Carrying this into life
Read slowly, with room for another person to hear these words differently. May what we learn draw us toward a more patient conversation and a life more attentive to love.
Let the reflection meet the next person you speak with. May wisdom help us listen, unity keep us open to one another, and grace become visible in the care we give.
Wisdom · Unity · Grace
