The Means of Grace…the Start Trek version.

I like how the UMC.org website calls the means of grace a “spiritual adventure” for “courageous and forward-leaning congregations.”  Grace is the unearned gift of God; preveniently going before us, leading us into a justified relationship with God for a life of ever deepening sanctification.  The Means of Grace are the many different ways God has promised to meet us, often referred to as spiritual disciplines.  John Wesley would divide these into individual and communal works of piety (love God with everything) and works of mercy (love your neighbor as yourself).  It’s not a “fake it till you make it” sort of faith, but a faith that patiently and obediently pursues God, trusting that God will richly and deeply meet us as we practice our faith.

Wesley’s covenant groups typically include the famous question, “How is it with your soul?”  I think this really is the best question to deeply engage others.  It’s just a cryin’ shame that androids don’t have souls…  Poor Asburoid.