For a blog about finding daily grace, it has been so difficult to hear of the violence, hatred, and suffering that is happening daily in our world, in particular Beirut and Paris. In the face of such despair, it is tempting to cry out, “Where is God? Where is His presence? Where is His grace?” We might even be tempted to abandon our hope, to give into the false testimony of the Devil, for indeed he is the one nudging us on this path. When we are faced with feelings such as this, we must recall the promises God has made. The promise of His continued presence, of His loving mercy, and of His grace.

Where can I go from your spirit?

From your presence, where can I flee?

If I ascend to the heavens, you are there;

if I lie down in Sheol, there you are.

If I take the wings of dawn

and dwell beyond the sea,

Even there your hand guides me,

your right hand holds me fast.

• Psalm 139: 7-10

The LORD’s acts of mercy are not exhausted,

his compassion is not spent;

They are renewed each morning—

great is your faithfulness!

• Lamentations 3:22-23

So let us confidently approach the throne of grace to receive mercy and to find grace for timely help.

• Hebrews 4:16

God’s grace is everywhere. However, because of our free will, it is up to us whether or not we choose to participate in it.

I leave you with this quote from Cardinal Vingt-Trois, the Archbishop of Paris:

Faced with the violence of men, may we receive the grace of a firm heart, without hatred. May the moderation, temperance and control that has been shown so far, be confirmed in the weeks and months to come; let no one indulge in panic or hatred. We ask that grace be the artisan of peace. We need never despair of peace if we build on justice.