Dungarvan Christian Fellowship

I just finished watching a hurling match between Cork and Clare. What an exciting game! I am glad that Cork won, but would even be more glad if it were Waterford beating up on Clare. Just like in any sport, it takes skill and effort to become a great player. In life it is the strong that survive, and those that try hard that stay on top. It would seem that we would take the same approach when it comes to spiritual matters, try hard, use your human potential to be the best, etc. The truth is that when it comes to serving God, it is the absence of our efforts that really help us to succeed! If I were to sum up Christianity in one word it would be GRACE. The Bible says, that it is by grace that you have been saved, through faith, and this not of yourselves less any man should boast (Ephesians 2:8,9). Jesus also said that apart from ME you can do Nothing. What? How can this be? You mean I can take no credit for being a holy person? That is right, it is in trusting, not trying that we grow strong, and it is in surrendering, rather than attacking, that we win battles. Too many people believe that they have achieved righteousness of their own accord and by their own efforts. This is fully acceptable in Hurling, but has no place in our spiritual lives. It is only through the Cross and Resurrection of Jesus that we attain victory. Jesus alone deserves the credit for the good things in our lives! Rev. Cliff