Stories of Grace

Years ago, I was part of a small group where each person shared how their faith came alive. Some had dramatic turning points; others had simply grown up in the church. As stories were shared, there were tears, laughter—and a profound sense of God’s presence.

I’ll never forget one woman who told how, while serving in the Army, she was diagnosed with stage 4 melanoma.  She was honorably discharged as the doctors really didn’t think she would live even a year. Her son was just a baby. Yet there she was, sharing her story—six years later.

Others spoke about how their marriages were saved, or how God sustained them through grief, illness, or divorce. Often, the healing came slowly or differently than expected, but the sense of grace was unmistakable.

These stories weren’t just inspirational—they were hopeful, relatable, and deeply real.

I found myself thinking: There is so much hope rooted in these stories. It was amazing – there were so many points of connection, so many places where people could relate with each other.

In our reformed Presbyterian tradition, we tend to keep our faith more to ourselves. We tend to make our faith a more private, personal matter. And I understand that. In fact, one of my favorite quotes is from St. Francis who said, “Preach the gospel everywhere you go – but use words only when necessary.”

I like that and it is true. However, sometimes our words and our stories can make a huge difference. There is something about naming out loud, something about recalling, telling, singing, giving thanks, that can inspire and give hope.

And so I wonder about your stories… I wonder when and how God has touched your life… I wonder if there may be someone who would be blessed by hearing it… I wonder if you have had an experience that you need to share… if there are words of gratitude you need to speak….

Let us pray: God of hope, as we reflect on your hand at work in our lives – now and in the past, we give you thanks and praise. Grant us wisdom to know when and where others might benefit by our stories. In Christ’s name. Amen.