By Grace

So ever since we first heard about you we have kept on praying and asking God to help you understand what he wants you to do; asking him to make you wise about spiritual things; and asking that the way you live will always please the Lord and honor him, so that you will always be doing good, kind things for others, while all the time you are learning to know God better and better.

We are praying, too, that you will be filled with his mighty, glorious strength so that you an keep going no matter what happens - always full of the joy of the Lord, and always thankful to the Father who has made us fit to share all the wonderful things that belong to those who live in the Kingdom of light. For he has rescued us out of the darkness and gloom of Satan's kingdom and brought us into the Kingdom of his dear Son, who bought our freedom with his blood and forgave us all our sins. Colossians 1:9-14 (TLB)

In 2019, Adhiambo E. Ochien'g, from Nairobi, Kenya, had the opportunity to teach a creative writing course for a group of accomplished expatriates who wanted to write about their experiences living in a foreign land. Adhiambo didn't know about the course until a few weeks before the start date, and he had not applied for the position. However, the program director called and asked him if he was interested in teaching the course. He and Adhiambo had previously worked together, and he trusted Adhiambo's ability. He hoped Adhiambo would accept the opportunity.

At first, Adhiambo felt unfit and undeserving of the job. Was he qualified? Would he be able to stand before these important people? But it was a privilege to have been specially chosen, and that meant he had as much right to teach the course as anyone.

This reminds Adhiambo of what God, through Jesus, has done for us. We are not worthy of God's grace or forgiveness. God chooses us, freely gives us the gift of grace, and offer us the right to be children of God! Let us remain assured that by grace we are worthy for all that God has called us to do.

Prayer: Dear God, sometimes we feel small, weak, and unworthy. Help us to remember that through your Son, Jesus we are worthy. We pray in His Holy name. Amen.