Book Review: "Grace: More Than We Deserve, Greater Than We Imagine "

"Grace is not blind. It sees the hurt full well. But grace chooses to see God's forgiveness even more. It refuses to let hurts poison the heart." Max Lucado has long been one of my favorite authors, largely because of quotes like this one. He is a wordsmith; he has a way of expressing things that clarifies and illuminates truth. His book "Grace" is no exception.

There perhaps is no other subject as pertinent or as necessary for society today than the subject of grace. It is a universal need. The good news that Lucado shares in this book is that it is also universally available. As he says in the first chapter, "Grace hugged the stink out of the prodigal and scared the hate out of Paul and pledges to do the same in us."

In this book, Max uses Biblical passages, like the woman caught in the act of adultery and the story of Barabbas, as well as illustrations of his own life and the lives of others, to weave together a beautiful portrait of grace. We're lead to understand why grace is necessary at all, breaking apart the myth of our own goodness. Then we're shown why it is provided: each of us is loved by God - "You are loved by your maker not because you try to please Him and succeed, or fail to please Him and apologize, but because He wants to be your Father." 

Max Lucado

Part of the beauty of grace is what happens as a result. We see lives transformed, hope restored and relationships mended. We are given a new outlook, a new lease on life. Some would say that this isn't fair, but that's why it's called "the scandal of grace." None of us deserves it - that's why it's called grace.

Concluding the book is a Reader's Guide, which is helpful for those who would like to use this book as a devotional or as a small group study. Included are pertinent quotes, a review and then some applicable questions.

All in all, Max has done it again, providing material that is highly quotable and deeply meaningful for the seeking heart. I hope you enjoy it.

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