The Unforced rhythms of Grace

The Message Bible captures this thought perfectly:
Matt 11:12 For a long time now people have tried to force themselves into God's kingdom. 13 But if you read the books of the Prophets and God's Law closely, you will see them culminate in John, teaming up with him in preparing the way for the Messiah of the kingdom.
All the law and the prophets spoke until John.  Among those born of women there is no greater than John the Baptist. Yet he that is least in the kingdom of God is greater than John.  Under the old covenant, the kingdom of God suffered violence, and the violent had to take it by force.  Under the new covenant, we no longer have to take the kingdom by force; we simply receive it.  The struggle is over.  We must learn the unforced rhythms of grace.
Matt 11:28 Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest. 29 Walk with me and work with me — watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. 30 Keep company with me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly.
(from THE MESSAGE: The Bible in Contemporary Language © 2002 by Eugene H. Peterson. All rights reserved.)

3 Messages