Have you ever noticed that grace is something that God bestows liberally when we refuse to consider it? While we are stewing in our self-righteous pietistic (as opposed to true piety) arrogance, God showers our brethren with love and mercy. His is deeper, sweeter, and has eternal repercussions.
I finally think I understand why. If we actually offer grace to someone else, we might have to finally recognize our daily need for a fresh infusion ourselves.
We’ve got to quit trying to earn it as if our petty attempts at lone-ranger godliness don’t mar the intrinsic beauty that is grace.