Extra Grace Required

We all have people in our lives who require a little extra grace.

 Like the student who came into class this morning 10 minutes before class was over and with tears in her eyes said "I overslept". Any other day it wouldn't have been a big deal but today was the first test. Poor thing was distraught and a little in shock when I replied by saying "it's ok, no worries,  take a minute to get yourself together and come back in 15 minutes and you can take the test." It was an Extra Grace Required moment and not really a big deal for me to stay after class and let her take the test. Extra Grace Requied.

This morning before I gave my students their test I told them I was going to take it too. They looked up at me in confusion. I explained that I would take the test with them and if I got any questions wrong and the majority of them did too, we would throw out the question and everyone would get the points. I think they thought I was kidding but I explained my goal is for them to learn how to be successful at helping hurting people not taking tests. Extra Grace Required.

Yes, we all encounter people who require a little extra dose of grace. Like the person in the 10 items or less check out who clearly has 27 items. Extra Grace Required.

It's the co worker who seems to have goal of making your life miserable. Her bad attitude and disrespect goes with out consequences. She literally makes you want to quit your job. Extra Grace Required.

Those moments when your toddler throws herself on the groud, kicking and screaming for no apparent reason. Then stands up and politely asks for raisins. Extra Grace Required.

But if I'm really honest, I'm an Extra Grace Required person. From time to time we all are. When the OCD monster rears it's ugly head, I require a little extra grace. 

Yup when I get out the label maker and go on a labeling rampage...Extra Grace Required. 

When I'm being a baby because I have really bad heartburn...Extra Grace Required. 

When I can't explain why i have to have my own blankets that no one else can touch...Extra Grace Required.

I'm learning to extend grace like I have been shown. Honestly I'm not completely sure why God continues to shower me with His grace and mercy, but I'm thankful for it. I'm thankful for a loving husband and daughter who show me grace on a daily basis despite my many faults and short comings. 

My challenge is to show and extend grace to everyone, even those who require a bit of extra grace today. I want to have Kingdom eyes that see beyond peoples shortcomings. I want to imitate Christ at all times. I want to show grace.

I'm loving fully present in the moment...even if it means Extra Grace Required.