Grit and Grace: The Heartbeat of Our Work
"Grace" is God's unmerited love, Grace reminds us that we are cherished by God, not because of what we do, but because of who He is. Grace transforms us, calling us into a deeper relationship with Him and inspiring us to extend that same love to others. Grace also empowers us to do things we couldn't do it our own strength.
"Grit" is our response to that grace. It is the resilience to keep going, the courage to live out our faith, and the determination to stand for justice and healing. Jesus not only extended grace; he also demonstrated grit, challenging broken systems, including what we would now call the family, tax, criminal systems – and walking alongside people in their toughest moments. He met people in their vulnerability to restore their sense of value and dignity and he calls us to do the same.
At Anglicare, "grit and grace" are always at work together. Like the rhythm of a heartbeat or the breath in our lungs: we inhale grace, and exhale grit. Grace fuels our compassion, and grit gives us the strength to serve, support, and advocate in dark places. When we look at the stories of people we work with, we're also constantly amazed by both grace and grit at work in their lives, amidst serious hardship.
In this edition of Care News, I invite you to explore grit and grace in every article. I am delighted that Anglicare's long-term friend, historian, Podcaster and author Dr John Dickson challenges all of us to be inspired by the Grit and Grace displayed in Christians throughout history.… asking us to consider our own role as the baton is passed to us at this point in time in history. What has grace looked like in your life and what is grace empowering you to do today? Where do you need to grow in grit in your own life, or for those who need you to be strong for their sake? Is there an area in your life we might be able to pray for you?
As always, thank you for journeying together and being a vital part of this mission.
Veronika Peters
Head of Philanthropy and Fundraising
Inspired by the gospel of reconciliation in Jesus Christ, Anglicare's vision for reconciliation is a nation in which Australia's First Peoples are restored in dignity, respect, empowerment and opportunity.