Chapter 2: Inexplicable Grace

The second chapter in Communicating for Life is based around the idea of grace, and how grace within communication works. I thought the idea of identification was fascinating. Sure, it makes it easier to relate to an audience or another if there is a common ground. But the examples used within the text were interesting, such as the couple forgiving the man who killed their son, or the man speaking to gang members. By identifying with the person/people, they were all able to forgive, and show God's grace.


Another idea gathered from reading the text was the example used with the co-herence of lovers. The text gives the example of the wife who fleetingly looked at the mantle and moments later (with no words exchanged between the two) the husband lit the candles sitting on the mantle. This rings true in my husband and my relationship. We often will say the same thing or want to do the same thing. For example, this past weekend was his 25th birthday. Completely a surprise to him, and without me giving hints, David would casually mention things that he wanted to do, such as get a birthday massage (I had couple massages scheduled for us for days before he said this). Or when he said it would be fun to go out of town (I was already planning on taking him to the beach). It is fun for us because it helps us feel closer and more intimate as a couple. We always joke that we are the same person.


I think the idea of grace itself is awesome. God sent Jesus, a human, to Earth so that we as humans could identify with him, and therefore better relate, listen to, and trust what Christ was saying. Grace is such an incredible thing. We can mess up, get in trouble, or disappoint, and the Lord will constantly show us his mercy and grace, if we seek it. If that same way, we all should show grace and mercy to others. It is easy for someone to stay upset or mad at someone for something (no matter how big or small) but it is harder to that person in the wrong to seek forgiveness. That being said, it is important for us, especially as Christians, to replicate the grace the Lord gives us, even if it is difficult at times.


Chris Tomlin sings a great version of "Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone)." After really thinking about the incredible gift of grace, it is nice to really soak in the lyrics of the song and relish in the grace God continually gives us (although it should not be taken for granted).


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pqJsBRFdrA0