The True Measure of Grace

Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. Luke 6:38 NIV

Read Luke 6:37-42

If you have done any baking, you know that baking flour can be very fluffy. This is because it is aerated, meaning it has been fluffed up to incorporate air. This process helps prevent the flour from becoming compacted, ensures more accurate measurements when baking, and delivers a more delicate texture. When you pour the flour into a glass measuring cup, you get a lot of air with the flour. If you shake it, you can see how it begins to settle. You may push down with your fingers or a spoon to further compress it. Pretty soon, what was your original measurement may become half the size. You can repeat this process, pushing out the air each time, making it denser.

In baking, flour can appear fluffy and full of air, but when you shake it or press it down, it becomes more compact, and you see its true measure. Similarly, when we judge others, we often see only the surface, the “fluff” of their actions or behaviors. We might make quick judgments based on incomplete or superficial information.

Jesus teaches us in Luke 6:37-42 not to judge or condemn others but to forgive and be generous in our assessments. Just as shaking or pressing down the flour reveals its true measure, taking the time to understand others more profoundly and compassionately reveals their true selves. This process helps us avoid harsh judgments and encourages us to offer forgiveness and grace.

Moreover, Jesus says, “For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you” (Luke 6:38). This means that how we judge others will be how we are judged. We will receive the same in return if we are generous and forgiving. 

Heavenly Father, we come before You with humble hearts, seeking Your wisdom and guidance. Help us to remember the teachings of Jesus, to refrain from judging and condemning others, and instead, to offer forgiveness and grace. Just as we measure flour with care and precision, may we also measure our actions and judgments with love and compassion.

Lord, teach us to see beyond the surface, to understand the true measure of those around us, and to extend the same mercy and kindness that You have shown us. Fill our hearts with generosity so we may give freely and receive Your abundant blessings in return.

May our lives reflect Your love and grace, and may we always strive to build a community rooted in understanding and forgiveness. We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ, our Savior. Amen.

Blessings,

Pastor Tim