Experiencing Divine Grace

Yesterday, while working with the Akashic Illumination Deck, a friend drew the Divine Grace card. I found myself wondering about the difference between Divine Grace and Unconditional Love. They seem so closely connected, and although I knew there was a difference, I couldn't quite put my finger on it. So, naturally, I asked the Records!

I knew that Unconditional Love is just that. I love you, no matter what. Divine Grace is different. It's about recognizing our experiences, acknowledging our part in them, and allowing Divine Grace to surround those experiences and replace judgment.

We are constantly learning and growing. Sometimes that means recognizing something we'd like to change, acknowledging our part in a situation, or discovering a different way of approaching life. We can take responsibility for our choices, appreciate what we've learned, and allow grace to replace the judgment we might otherwise carry.

What a more graceful way to move forward! (Pun intended!)

As I explored this with the Records, something else became clear to me. There are two parts to experiencing Divine Grace. We can consciously choose to give ourselves grace, and we can also open ourselves to receiving it.

I think that's an important distinction. We can understand the concept of grace, believe in it, and even encourage others to experience it. But how often do we actually allow ourselves to feel it?

Imagine recognizing something that's holding you back or something you'd like to change, while allowing yourself to feel completely surrounded by Divine Grace. Rather than approaching the situation with judgment, you can explore it with grace, giving yourself the freedom to recognize what needs your attention and discover new possibilities.

And perhaps we can bring that same awareness into our relationships with others. We each have our own experiences, perspectives, and opportunities to grow. What might change if we allowed grace to become part of how we experience those relationships?

As we approach the holidays, with all the opportunities to connect with people we love and reflect on the year we've experienced, perhaps this is a good time to invite Divine Grace into our lives.

I keep coming back to the message I felt when my friend drew that card.

Give yourself grace.

And just as importantly, allow yourself to receive it.