Journeying to Grace

When you walk back and forth within the many rope-formed lanes in airport security, you end up passing by the same people multiple times. For perhaps up to 20 minutes (if you’re lucky) or more on a busy day, these faces become more familiar with each pass. Though these travelers are similar in plans to fly that day, they carry different stories of spirit within them.

During my recent trip through a security line, the faces I passed by so often started to get more of my attention each time because their expressions and demeanors stayed the same. Some traveling with companions held conversations, others walked ahead while staring down at their cell phones, but I especially noticed the several fellow travelers who simply moved forward as I did. Of those, some seemed content, some thoughtful, and some appeared agitated (or perhaps just anxious about reaching their gates on time). I wondered if each face or expression was a true reflection of that person’s story of spirit…and so I also wondered what my expression was portraying. Does my demeanor project the peace of Christ and the goodness of God working in my life?

Do we bring our story of spirit with us when we leave our comfort zone? Do we reflect our story of spirit to those we encounter, no matter where we are? Despite the hardships, discouraging situations, or doubt we sometimes experience, can others we pass by see that ours is a story of confidence in the truth of the Lord, of peace in the faithful trust in His companionship, and of inner joy at receiving the grace only He can provide?

We do have a story of faith and salvation to share and witness, and as we outwardly move forward each day, we are invited to reflect our story of spirit and exhibit our identity as members of the Body of Christ. We are especially called to offer a demeanor of love and hope. Let us pray that the people we ‘pass by’ will see the light and love of Christ within us, so they, too, are encouraged to seek the comfort of His goodness and grace.

‘You are the light of the world… let your light shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.’ (Matt 5:14-16)