Wednesday, December 2, 2009

Is my grace that expansive?

We're reading through the 40-year journey of the Israelites in church and our home groups. This week the home group topic was Rahab. Seems like a pretty straightforward story, right? A prostitute has heard about the mighty God that is kicking butt on behalf of the Israelites, so she decides to help the spies who are checking out Jericho. They really appreciate it, and she and her family are saved when the Israelites come back and take over.

Here's the thing - the question was asked, "What do you make of the New Testament's affirmation of "Rahab the prostitute" (Heb 11:31, James 2:25)?" One of the answers (multiple choice or fill in your own) was "God's grace is more inclusive than ours". So the assumption is that many of us don't believe people in different circles, different circumstances, etc., deserve grace.

I have a problem with that. I believe that Jesus died for everyone. But here's my struggle. I think that sometimes our consequences are necessary for our growth. What do I mean? I mean, I don't/won't help some people when they keep making the same stupid mistakes over and over and over again. Does that mean I'm not grace-filled? Does that mean that I should be a doormat? What does that look like in real life??

I guess I'm wrestling with my THOUGHTS and FEELINGS of grace towards people and my ACTIONS or lack thereof towards people who I don't think "deserve" my help.

Any help?