It's all because of Jesus

As we stand at the threshold of reflection, we're invited to ask ourselves a penetrating question: How do we truly feel about our relationship with Jesus this year? This message challenges the subtle but pervasive tendency we all share—measuring our faith by our performance rather than resting in God's grace. Drawing from powerful passages like Ephesians 1:7-8, Romans 5:1, and 2 Corinthians 5:17, we're reminded that everything we have—forgiveness, redemption, peace with God, our new identity, access to the throne of grace, and eternal life—comes through Jesus Christ alone, not through our efforts. The communion table becomes our antidote to the disease of self-centered faith, redirecting our gaze from 'How much have I done?' to 'What has Jesus accomplished?' We discover that when we place ourselves at the center, grace loses its wonder and becomes mere effort. But when Jesus remains central, grace stays truly amazing. This isn't about excusing passivity or abandoning devotion; it's about understanding that we serve because we are forgiven, not to be forgiven. The question isn't whether we're worthy to approach God's table—none of us are—but whether we'll embrace the lavish grace He's poured out on us through His Son's blood.