THE GRACE OF GOD

In the days of the Roman occupation

The Lord looked down and saw the condition

of His people. That they were broken and scattered. 

That even those who had been charged with their care

kept them in bondage to endless laws

and heavy requirements. As He saw this

He was saddened to the depths of His heart.

Then Michael, Commander of the Host of Heaven

came to Him and asked why He was so sad.

"This was not my plan for them." The Lord replied.

"When I created them I saw a people who

would live a life of joyful praise. Serving

one another out of their love for me."

Michael looked at His Master and stepped forward,

"My Master give the word and I will lead 10 Legions

of your finest warriors and restore the land and

drive out the invaders." He said sternly fire

glistening in his eyes.

"But if I save them in such a way what will they

learn of my heart? No! Michael that is not the way."

the Lord replied.

Then Michael continued, "My Lord, then let us, once again,

 raise up a mighty warrior who will lead the people

 in victorious battle.  They can then restore your Kingdom

and establish your laws once more."

The Lord turned to face His captain deeply touched

by his Love and determination.

"Thank you Michael.  I know I simply have to ask and

you will expend your last breath to see it done.

However if I do that my people will once again look

to man for their salvation.  They will be slaves once more

and instead of foreign rulers they will have their own.

No. Now is the time when they must seek Me for who I am.

They must return to me because they want to,

 not because it is required of them.

"How will you do this?" Michael asked.

"Through Grace!" The Lord replied. "For thousands of

years they have tried to fulfil the law, but it is not within

them to do.  So I will show them my grace and love

and redeem them myself."

Michael locked puzzled. "But how will you do this my Lord. 

You have set the price for the forgiveness of sins.

The people know what is required.  How will you show

 them grace and not destroy the law?"

Now Jesus had been listening to the whole

conversation and now stepped forward.

"I will go to them and show them who you are

my Lord." Jesus said. "I will speak to them and

show them your power."

Michael got very excited. "That is a great idea Lord.

How can they doubt when they see you in your glory. 

They will surely turn from their ways and worship you."

"No Michael." Jesus continued. " I will not go as you

see me now. For then as soon as I am gone I will

become legend and those who did not see me

will not change."

"Then how my Lord?" Michael asked.

"I will be born as one of them.

I will lay aside this form and become as they are.

I will live among them and show them what the

Kingdom of God is supposed to be." Jesus replied.

Then the Father asked, "But how will that show

the grace I wish to give them?"

Then Jesus looked at his Father and replied.

"Because I will pay the price for their sin

according to the Law.  I will let them kill me

and become the spotless lamb that is required."

Michael could not speak, his mind raced at the

thought of Jesus dying at the hands of the Lords creation.

"My Master," he cried out "That can not be. 

What possible good could come from your death?"

Jesus looked and Him with great love and understanding.

"Michael grace is a free gift given to those who do not deserve it.

What better way to show the love and grace of the

Father than to give up everything and pay the price they

are not able to pay themselves. 

That is the essence of grace."