“In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace that He lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding.”

Ephesians 1:7-8 ( NIV )

Redemption (buying back) forgiveness (pardon), grace (mercy), wisdom (knowing), understanding (to know).

Words that daily we take to work with us, words we use at home with family, words we use as we play, words we use as we encounter friends and strangers . But as we approach the cross of Jesus Christ we see these words take action and become gifts freely given to you and me.

Can you even imagine kneeling at the cross and seeing a love so great? As I approach this Lenten season and every season, I remain in awe of a God so gracious that I can barely fathom the depth of His love for me that He gave His only Son so that I may have eternal life with Him.

We sometimes become selfish and refuse to share the words that will give others the opportunity to know and receive the same free gift of eternal life. Everyone needs to hear and see these words: redemption, forgiveness, grace, wisdom and understanding in action. Let's make this Lenten season the reason to proclaim the Glory of God.

Gracious God, as I humbly come before you I ask for the courage to proclaim your words of redemption, forgiveness, grace, wisdom and understanding to all I come in contact with daily. And, Lord Jesus, I praise you and thank you for your gifts so freely given.

MARIE DRYER