16 May
The Face of Grace
A few weeks ago my Sunday School class discussed the story of Jacob and Esau. The events were familiar enough…a stolen birthright, an estranged relationship, and ultimately reconciliation for this pair of twins. (See Genesis 27-33 for a complete recap.)
However, one verse in this passage seemed particularly fresh and applicable. After years of separation, Jacob and Esau reunite. Jacob fears Esau’s wrath for his past deception but instead finds mercy. Jacob then says to Esau, “…I have seen your face, and it is like seeing God’s face, since you have accepted me” (Genesis 33:10b).
As I read this verse, my mind began to reflect on the people God has placed in my life to be the face of grace. My boss who told me during a tough season that I was more valuable than what I could produce. My creative writing professor who told me to have courage to create before I criticized my work. My best friend who knows all my quirks and still finds me delightful. My husband who says “I just want to be close to you” when we’ve had a disagreement.
It is indeed God’s kindness that brings us to repentance, and most often His people who have the privilege of reflecting it in physical form. “Therefore, be imitators of God, as beloved children and walk in love…” (Ephesians 5:1-2a).
This week, I’m looking at my own countenance a little more closely and asking what my face says to others. Proverbs 19:11 has given me challenge and a bit of insight. “A man’s discretion makes him slow to anger, and it is his glory to overlook a transgression.” Why is it to my glory to overlook a transgression? It is because in that moment I have the sacred opportunity to reflect one of the most powerful aspects of God’s character, His grace.
Would you take a few minutes and share your story with me? Who has been the face of grace to you? How has their favor affected you?
What do you think? Join the discussion »
Filed in: Grace
About the Author
Ashley Davis is in a year of new beginnings. She married in June and is the proud bride of Andrew Davis. A graduate of Union University, she called Jackson home for eight years before marrying and moving to Nashville this past year. She’s grateful for the written word and feels it is a powerful tool to help her reflect on God’s truth and process the twists and turns of life.
