Amazing Grace

Romans 12:3 – For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you. (NIV)

As a Christian group travelling through Greece, we walked to the top of a hill, where in front of us stood the ruins of ancient Epidaurus built towards the beginning of the third century B.C. The theatre still stands intact after all these years. Our guide told us how one can almost hear a pin drop when there is perfect silence.

Our group leader asked one of us to choose a selection from the Bible to read, while some of the group climbed part way up the structure to hear the word of God spoken in the perfection of the acoustics in this outdoor theatre.

While we at the bottom waited for them to reach the upper level, another group moved in and began to make merry, singing like the opera singers they were not.

Time passed, as we patiently waited our turn to hear God's word read. I could see that if we didn't force our way in and begin, they would continue to hold the floor, and we would never be able to do what was planned.

I approached the one who was chosen to read and encouraged her to start. After a few moments, she began. I listened intently, and when the reader ended the scripture lesson I did something I had no intention to do. I began to sing Amazing Grace. It was as though I had been guided by the Holy Spirit.

If I had been asked to sing beforehand, I would have said "No," but when one is moved by the Spirit, one can't say no, nor does one wish to. As I held onto the last note and dipped my head, I said silently to myself, "Thank you, Jesus." I was aware of the silence around me; tears welled up within me as I turned and left the site. This was a moving experience for myself as well as those in attendance.

I have shared this with you for one reason: not to point to myself, but to you. When the world around us seems to be ruling over us, let us not be afraid to speak out for the Lord, for His amazing grace will help us to do it.

Acts 18:9-10a – One night the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision: "Do not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be silent. For I am with you, and no one is going to attack and harm you." (NIV)

Prayer: Lord, thank you for your amazing grace. Thank you for helping us to speak out in praise to You and for giving us the strength that we never thought we had. Let us never hold back when You ask us to witness for you. Thank you, Jesus. Amen.

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