There’s something about the way God works through grace that’s almost offensive. God doesn’t ask for us to perform a great deed or to prove ourselves worthy of his mercy. All we do is trust.
But surely something worth having would be hard to get. Reconciliation with God through Jesus can’t be free, can it? Wouldn’t that be an insult to God? Surely he’ll put up barriers and tests and gatekeepers to make sure we don’t take it for granted. Forgiveness and reconciliation and healing and wholeness – by Grace- looks condescending, looks suspicious, looks open to abuse.
But ask yourself: what is God after most of all? He’s looking for humility. He’s looking for creatures who know they’re creatures: who know they’re the creation, not the creator. He’s looking for people who know their place before God and know how much we need his help.
In 2 Kings 5 Naaman thinks his biggest need is a cure for leprosy. But God will give him much more than he set out for. He’ll give him a right understanding of his relationship to God. He’ll give Naaman the humility to come, empty handed, and receive mercy and wholeness.
