Digging Deeper: A Need for Grace
“Certainly there were many needy widows in Israel in Elijah’s time, when the heavens were closed for three and a half years, and a severe famine devastated the land. Yet Elijah was not sent to any of them. He was sent instead to a foreigner, a widow of Zarephath in the land of Sidon.”
Luke 4:25-26 (NLT)
A NEED FOR GRACE
During the Great Depression, the “soup kitchens” of Al Capone in Chicago became legendary. Despite his criminal activities, Capone provided free meals to thousands of struggling people. Interestingly, many wealthy people refused to be seen in the lines, even as they secretly starved. Their pride and their “reputation” prevented them from receiving the help they desperately needed. It was only those who were willing to admit their total destitution who actually walked away fed.
Jesus used the example of the widow of Zarephath to sting the pride of the people in Nazareth. During a massive famine, God bypassed the “chosen” people who felt entitled to His blessing and instead sent His prophet to a Gentile widow, a foreigner. Why? Because she recognized her desperate need. She had nothing left but a handful of flour and a little oil.
Jesus was teaching a hard truth: His grace is not for the entitled, but for the empty. When we think our “status” or “church background” earns us a seat at the table, we miss the heart of the Gospel. Jesus came for those who are willing to admit they cannot save themselves.
Reflection Questions
● Does your “church background” ever make you feel like you deserve God’s blessing more than others?
● What “empty” area of your life are you currently trying to fill on your own instead of bringing it to Jesus?
Suggested Prayer
Father, strip away my pride and my sense of entitlement. Help me to remember that I am totally dependent on Your grace, and let me come to You with an open and humble heart today.
Dr. Larry Grays is passionate about helping churches grow and reaching people in fresh, creative ways. He launched a church in a Midtown Atlanta movie theater and later served as an Urban Church Planting Strategist with the North American Mission Board. Today, he speaks, writes, and coaches pastors and leaders. Larry has degrees from UCF, Southeastern Seminary, and Southern Seminary—but more importantly, he loves Jesus, good coffee, and seeing the next generation step into their calling. He and his wife Lori love raising their incredible kids and love doing life and ministry together.