How important is grace? Paul said that God's grace and telling others about that grace were more important than his own life! Sharing God's grace with others was Paul's mission in life. He felt his life would be empty and valueless if he didn't complete the mission God had given him. Thankfully, as Paul awaited his execution in prison, he could say: I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day — and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing (2 Timothy 4:6-7). Paul finished strong and fulfilled his mission. Now it's our turn to do the same!

Almighty God, Holy Father, thank you for your lavish grace demonstrated and fully expressed in sending Jesus to die for me. As your child, and in thanks to your sacrificial gift, I pledge to you my life, my love, and my all. Through Jesus and in the power of his name, I pray. Amen.