Do not fear, for I am with you, do not be afraid, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you.
-Isaiah 41:10 (NRSV)
MANY years ago, I taught in a teacher's training college. As a young teacher I was involved with several Christian activities. On Saturdays I would take a team of Christian students to share their faith in nearby villages. First the group would sing to gather the people. Then, following a short message, we would distribute Christian literature. Because I was acquainted with the Bible, I was expected to give the message.
I soon discovered that though I knew the biblical texts, I was not able to communicate the love of Jesus and his forgiving grace. On one occasion I opened my Bible, read the above verse from Isaiah, and confessed my inability to preach with conviction. Suddenly, I felt within my heart a new joy. I realized that knowing the Bible and experiencing God's grace are two entirely different things. I could feel God's grace surround me. And feeling that grace changed my life.
At the end of that school year, I left my teaching job to attend seminary. For the last 50 years I have experienced God's faithfulness -- often in very trying times. God continues to strengthen me daily. I know that grace is real.
