Means of Grace
Scott Rosner

Scripture: John 15:1–8 & Acts 2:42–47
Jesus says in John 15, “I am the vine; you are the branches.” The image displays our connection to Christ and how we can also become disconnected from him and the church.

There was a time in my life when addiction had cut me off from the life God intended for me. Drugs and alcohol promised relief, escape, and comfort, but eventually they left me empty, ashamed, and spiritually dry. Looking back now, I can see something I could not fully recognize then: God’s grace was already reaching for me long before I reached for Him.

Methodists call this prevenient grace — the grace that goes before us. It is the grace that pursues us when we are lost, broken, and unable to find our own way back.  For me it was the voice in the darkness telling me there had to be more than this life I was living. It was the people God placed around me, hands that found me when I needed Him the most.

Then came justifying grace — the grace that forgives, restores, and frees us from condemnation. Even in sobriety I was consumed with guilt, remorse, and shame. I recall a powerful moment at Arcola, staring at the cross in the great room while Amazing Grace my chains are gone playing. There I found a new freedom and happiness through His mercy. 

Jesus says branches connected to the vine bear fruit. Having recovered from hopelessness, I was and am becoming someone new in Christ. This is where sanctifying grace continues its work in me every day. Sanctifying grace is the ongoing transformation shaping me into the man I am today — teaching me humility, gratitude, honesty, compassion, and obedience. Today, one of the greatest gifts of sanctifying grace is the opportunity to help others who are still struggling. Being a sober, useful and humble husband, father, son and disciple that carries the message is God’s will for me.  This will is why I find myself saying “But for the grace of God go I” on a daily basis.  

In Acts 2, the early church devoted themselves to teaching, fellowship, prayer, and caring for one another. Methodists call these practices the Means of Grace — the ordinary ways God works in our lives daily. Through prayer, scripture, worship, communion, accountability, recovery meetings, service, and Christian community, God keeps me connected to the Vine. Recovery was never meant to be lived alone. Healing happens in community.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for never giving up on me. Thank You for the prevenient grace that found me in my darkest moments, the justifying grace that freed me from guilt and shame, and the sanctifying grace that continues to shape my life today. Keep me connected to You, the true Vine. Help me bear fruit that honors You and gives hope to others still struggling with addiction. Use my story for Your glory and help me walk faithfully in Your will each day. Amen