The Social Act of Grace

It's official, crazy shopping time as begun. You won't be able to park anywhere near a mall until the end of February. You take your life in your hands just going to the mall. So what happens if you do find yourself in that mass of shoppers? You can't miss the grouchy ones, the impatient ones, the tired children. It's wearing on the nerves, even for really patient people. That's when you need to practice The Social Act of Grace.

It's really a mindset you need to take on before you get there. Know that you will give deference to others. That you won't fight over parking spots. That you will be patient in the mile long line at checkout. You can do it because the Holy Spirit will be with you. Not only can you beninly step aside, you can add blessing to others in desperate need this holiday season.

When you head out to face the frenzy, let God go before you. See if you don't see opportunities to bless and give grace. Trust me, it will affect people. They won't expect it. They will assume that you will be as harried and harassed as everyone else. They won't expect kindness, a smile, a helping hand.

Don't let the crowds beat you down. Allow God to be grace to you, then share it, especially to people you don't know. It's true that what goes around comes around and receiving grace anytime is just a good thing.