From John 1:14-18 / GRACE! – Verse 14 contains the first use of the word “grace” in the NT. And oh what is built upon it. But how do we define such a thing as God’s favor the way it is then expounded in the Gospel? If I might be so bold as to attempt just a shallow try – it looks like this: Grace is:

The greatness of God stooping down to the lowliest of men.

The goodness of God extended to the worst of men.

The worthiness of Christ accounted to the most unworthy.

The riches of God in Christ bestowed upon the most bankrupt.

The sweetness of God poured out on the bitterest of men.

The mercy of God granted to the guiltiest of criminals.

The cleansing of God in washing the filthiest of sinners in the blood of His dear Son.

The promises of God bestowed upon and fulfilled to the most faithless.

The forgiveness of God granted to those who have offended Him most.

The love of God expressed to His fiercest haters.

And God’s acceptance as beloved children, those who are most estranged from Him in their sin and rebellion.

All given freely in the birth, life, death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ, that we might have eternal life in and with Him. It expounds the wonder that “the word became flesh and dwelt among us.” This is the glory of the only Son from the Father. And Christ has made Him known. That, I believe, is just a tiny sip of true grace.