Several years ago, I read an article in which the author tried to explain the difference between grace and justice. Justice, they argued was the fulfilment of the law. You break the law, legal or even social, and there is a penalty to pay. Only when this has been paid has justice been fully served. So, justice is what we deserve in response to our actions. Grace, however, is when the outcome we get is not what we deserve at all.
John in his Gospel tells of a woman who was brought to Jesus as an adulterer. Justice, according to the religious law of the time, required she be put to death. Instead, Jesus offered her grace and forgiveness.
I wonder how often in our striving to exact justness for ourselves and others, we forget the power of grace to bring about transformation and new life.
If you are struggling at this time and just need someone to talk to, then please email us at office@pb.org.nz or call 0223075225 and we will contact you.
This Sunday @ 10am This coming Sunday we continue our series looking at encounters Jesus has with others as told by the writer of the Gospel of John. This week we are looking at John 8 and a story about a woman charged with adultery.
A children’s programme is available and a crèche for younger children.
To join with us on air, tune in to Coast Access Radio 104.7FM from 10.00am or livestream at http://coastaccessradio.org.nz...
Mainly Music – Wednesdays from 10.00am during school terms. This programme is a fun way for parents and their children to spend quality time together based around music and movement. It is an opportunity for us as a church to connect with and offer something back to the community of which we are a part. It is also a way for us to demonstrate care, concern, and support for those with young children.
Small Groups. We have several groups meeting. Contact the church office@pb.org.nz if you would like to join one.
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Grace and peace