In every place; in every time; among all cultures; with every clan; in youth or age; through wealth or poverty—human beings will underline how what they do unites their lives with God.

“It is my prayers,” the homeless woman says. “God saves me because I am persistent.”

“It is my giving,” the multi-billionaire asserts. “God saves me because I build good homes for those who can’t afford them.”

“It is my art,” the passionate young sculptor says. “God saves me because my art stirs thoughtful souls to pray and give.”

And yet, there was, there is, there will be no “because.” “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God—not the result of works, so that no one may boast” (Eph 2:8-9).

Grace is the sweet announcement that we are reconciled to God out of the richness of His kindness. We pray, we give, we honor Him in art to share our thanks, not earn our way.

God loves from love: He doesn’t need persuading.

So stay in grace. -Bill Knott