From his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace.

[Excerpted from Choose Generosity: Discovering Whole-Life Stewardship, Herald House, 2019, pp. 24–25]

God generously gives boundless grace and unending love. God also gives us the choice to accept or reject God’s generosity. As disciples of Jesus Christ, we yearn to accept God’s grace and love in our lives. When we receive God’s gifts, we allow God to touch our souls deeply.

“Collectively and individually, you are loved with an everlasting love that delights in each faithful step taken. God yearns to draw you close so that wounds may be healed, emptiness filled, and hope strengthened. Do not turn away in pride, fear, or guilt from the One who seeks only the best for you and your loved ones. Come before your Eternal Creator with open minds and hearts and discover the blessings of the gospel anew. Be vulnerable to divine grace” (Doctrine and Covenants 163:10).

This scripture describes God’s unending love for us and God’s hope to be close to us. It also invites us to open ourselves to God’s boundless grace. Grace is a gift received before we have given anything, God makes the first move. Grace is freeing and transformational.

Prayer Phrase

“For by grace you have been saved” (Ephesians 2:8).

Spiritual Practice

The Jesus Prayer of Mercy

The Jesus Prayer is an ancient spiritual practice from Orthodox Christianity. It is a way of connecting with the gracious Spirit of Christ as we ask to receive his mercy. The prayer comes from the scripture of the blind man calling Jesus to heal him. Silently enter prayer and let your breath become slow and even. Greet God and then take up the prayer phrase: Lord, Jesus Christ (as you breathe in) … have mercy on me (as you breathe out). Prayerfully repeat these words for several minutes (or forty times). Breathe the presence of Christ into your mind, heart, and body. Be transformed as you receive the compassionate, peaceful heart of Jesus.

Today’s Prayer for Peace

Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.