Apply God’s Grace
What did you experience during the Advent/Christmas season that will carry you through the year? When recently asked this question, I thought of the busyness of the season, the added social events, more worship services, travel, and family gatherings. While often these activities are joyous and positive, that is not always the case. A family gathering, early in Advent, went very poorly. I failed to listen deeply and appreciate what others were going through before speaking. My communication caused pain and did nothing to bring our family together. While I accepted ownership for my behavior and apologized profusely, I struggled to forgive myself.
It wasn’t until Christmas Eve service, while singing familiar carols, that I was able to recognize and receive grace. The true source of grace is never ourselves; it is always God. Grace is not a means to excuse or justify sin. Grace is the free, unmerited love and favor of God. Extending self-grace is a misnomer. Yes, we should work to self-manage our emotions so we can learn and grow from life experiences. Yes, push the pause button to allow time for prayer and reflection. Yet Scripture instructs us to apply God’s grace and to put on the new self each and every day.
“Hark the Herald Angels Sing” emphasizes God’s grace in the incarnation when God takes on human flesh.
“Joy to the World” focused on Christ ruling with “truth and grace”.
“Silent Night” in the second verse specifically mentions “radiant beams from Thy holy face, with the dawn of redeeming grace”.
“It Came Upon a Midnight Clear” highlights the grace of peace given to a “weary world”. God’s grace will carry me through the year.
As United Women in Faith members, we have access to an abundance of resources to support our spiritual journey. For instance, Mission u is an opportunity to gather with others and discover more than we can imagine on our own. The youth, children, and adult curriculum book, A Deep Knowing: Experiencing Emmanuel Through Every Part of Our Lives, by Linda Louise Furtado, is now available on Amazon. (https://www.amazon.com/dp/1952501407) It is a worthwhile curriculum to use for Mission u, in a small study group, in a church-wide study, or as a basis for a leadership retreat.
Kathy M Johnson,
Conference Program Resource Mission Coordinator
2026 Program Resource Guide
The 2026 Program Resource by Hannah Kardon, Mapping Our Way Forward, is available in digital and hard-copy formats. To order, go to: uwfaithresources.org/prodDetail.cfm?productID=13206&catid=2177
for a 20% offer available through December.
The resource title alone resonates with me. I rarely travel without the benefit of a map – on my phone, the car’s navigational app, or a paper map/atlas. Guidance and reliable direction are essential. Whenever and whatever uncertainties we encounter, holding onto God and our core values will equip us to face challenges and remain grounded.
Each program features a thematic Bible reading, a map to explore, discussion questions, and a closing prayer. Most months will have a specific connection to a United Women in Faith program, such as National Mission Institutions. The content could readily be pared down, used for a brief devotion, or expanded to a full program. Feel free to select the content based on your group’s interest/focus rather than using the monthly calendar alone.
Hannah Kardon is undoubtedly a familiar name to some. She is a UMC pastor and also serves in extension ministry at Interfaith America. Or maybe you have read her previous writings as co-author of Finding Peace in an Anxious World and author of Healing & Joy on Our Journey to God. Her work offers perspective, insight, and challenges the reader to apply and go beyond superficial observations.
Also, take advantage of the United Women in Faith community gatherings. They are a monthly presentation and discussion of the upcoming program, guided by the author, accessed via a live Zoom. With time dedicated to small-group breakout sessions, I have found them to be a wonderful way to expand my connection with faith sisters across the country. Go to uwfaith.org/digital or subscribe to one of the paid resources.
Kathy M Johnson
Conference Program Resource Mission Coordinator
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Daily Prayer Guide
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United Women in Faith Handbook
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United Women in Faith Quadrennial Calendar
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