Doug Mehner
Feb 19, 2025
"Grace in the Gaps"
Kindling the word: The word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen the glory , the glory of the one and only son,who came from the Father,full of GRACE and truth. John 1:14
Stoking the spirit: I recently had an opportunity to participate in a work event that included some of the normal team building exercises along with some time to present in front of the team our thoughts on new ideas and some problem solving solutions followed by some time to acknowledge yearly achievements related to our work. Nothing too out of the ordinary as most of us have been a part of these types of events before. What happened later is what changed my perspective on a christian concept that we often hear about but rarely apply, Especially to ourselves as purpose driven men..
I was given the task of presenting ideas from a breakout session. Public speaking has never been easy for me, but over time, I’ve learned to push through the fear, especially when I’m passionate about a topic. This wasn’t just another presentation; it was a moment where I felt proud of the work we had done. But pride has a way of clouding our vision, doesn’t it?
After I had presented “the best” solution to this particular problem I returned to my seat, feeling a mix of relief and accomplishment. At that moment a wave of conviction washed over me. The Holy Spirit, in His quiet way, spoke to my heart: “You didn’t mention Me.” Those words hit hard. I had promised myself that if ever given the chance, I would honor God in those moments. Yet, here I was, having let the moment slip by.
God, in His infinite grace, gave me another opportunity, and then another. During our annual awards ceremony, and later in a direct conversation, I was asked what my secret to success was. And each time, I froze. I couldn’t bring myself to give God the glory, the One who had made it all possible. The irony of my three missed opportunities wasn’t lost on me—three denials, just like Peter.
After the event wrapped up, I couldn’t keep this burden to myself. I crossed paths with our CEO, and after exchanging the usual pleasantries, I told him I had failed. Surprised, he asked why, and I shared my conviction about not giving God the glory He deserves. His response was full of grace. He assured me there would be future opportunities to honor God publicly. It was a conversation that left me both humbled and hopeful.
But here’s the beautiful part. What followed was an evening of quiet subtle Grace. God presented 3 chances to share his story and His impact on my life with three of my coworkers, in private conversations that felt like divine appointments. It dawned on me that while I might have missed the grand stage, God was still weaving His story through the smaller, more intimate moments.
Upon further reflection I’m reminded of the story of Peter in Matthew 26:29 when Peter denies ever knowing Jesus 3 times. But that's not the part that is most important. If we read in John 21:15 we see that Jesus asked Peter 3 times if he loved him. You see God's grace is not something that we earn, it is freely given if we receive it. Peter had to receive Jesus’s grace so he could be the “rock” that would become his true identity. Also contrast that with how Judas approached the forgiveness that was available to him. His Grace is available to all who choose to RECEIVE it.
Fireside Reflection: A few years ago, Dan Southerland shared a “new to me” concept: “Always be preaching the gospel, and only when necessary, use words.” It’s a phrase that has stayed with me, though living it out is no easy task. I love my work at my company, and I respect the leaders I serve under, but at the end of the day, my heart belongs to another Master. My work is for His glory, and that’s something I have to remember, even when the words don’t come easily.
Embers of Challenge: Learn to receive! For far too long, I’ve held myself to a standard that leaves little room for grace. I’m quick to offer it to others, but when it comes to myself, I’ve been my harshest critic. With God’s Grace, I learned that grace isn’t just something we give—it’s something we must learn to receive. I may not have spoken His name from a stage, but I shared His love in smaller, quieter ways. And for that, I’m learning to give myself the grace that He so freely offers.
Ignited for action:
Identify: Reflect on a moment when you didn't exemplify the love of Jesus. Perhaps it was a harsh rebuke to a spouse about a project you were working on together, perhaps it was a child who needed your advice at the wrong time, perhaps it was a coworker who needed some guidance when you were in the middle of a big project.
Declare: Yes I didnt reply or respond as I wanted to. If so prompted, follow the advice that scripture teaches us in Psalm 32:5 Then I acknowledged my sin to you and did not cover up my iniquity. I said : I will confess my transgressions to the Lord and you forgave the guilt of my sin.
Engage: Ask God for his grace to dwell in you. We already know that the fire is our safe place among brothers if you feel so prompted to share that with the fire and watch what our God will do with those embers.
Fireside Connection: Come ready to engage with other brothers in a way that reflects a heart change towards yourself. This doesn't mean you are “off the hook” there may be some very difficult conversations that will need to happen as a result of this drudging. That is ok as we will be there with you in it. We as brothers know when we read the words of Proverbs 27:17 As iron sharpens iron so one person sharpens another.
Fanning the flame in Prayer: Lord may these words and thoughts be of you and your spirit for all to receive and learn from as you use your spirit to fan the flame inside of us so we can be on fire for you and your kingdom. Allow the Grace that you give freely to linger in our souls as the smoke from a fire lingers in our clothes. In your mighty son's name we pray Amen.
Weekly Bible verse: 2 Corinthians:9 But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you,for my power is made perfect in your weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weakness,so that Christ's power may rest on me.