We continue with selections from The Justification Reader by Thomas C. Oden.
The engaging and comely act of wooing and giving gifts is an intrinsic aspect of the demeanor of grace. God the Spirit actively seeks out the beloved and offers gifts. God woos humanity with the most comely means: the beauty of creation, the gifts of covenant sexuality, the restorative power of friendships. When the gifts of men and women dispose them toward behaviors that are admirable, gratifying, beautiful, or desirable, they are rightly called gracious. God wills to work in God's own way in our hearts, through our choices and actions, amid our families, nations, and social processes. It is by grace that God's self-giving love for humanity is communicated.
One of my favorite words to describe what our God does through the Holy spirit is "woo." In traditional language we usually say that the devil "tempts" us to go this way and that way...all of which are counter to our God. Then, as we go that way of the evil one, we find that we are given...nothing...but death and the burden of work as though it can "get us somewhere." But when God acts, it is through a great love for us...so great that God gives all in order to have us come and enter the life of promise and hope and love that is a part of the gift of God's reign. God...woos us! Wow! In many and various ways God is after each and everyone of us...to bring us home...to encourage us to trust the life that is available to us through Christ. Woo...Woo...Woo!
Connection: Yes, you. It is within the many and great stories of scripture and the life of God's people that we again and again are reminded of our place within the very heart of God's love for creation.
Lord of All Life we are drawn to you by the power of your Spirit. Let this day be rich with the life you have promised and guide us as we learn to walk trusting in you alone, O God of Love and Grace. Amen
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