By Dr. Michael Sims
Recently, I was asked to lead a presentation at Saint Damien Parish in Ocean City on “the loop of grace.”
This term, spoken often about by Bishop Robert Barron and the Word on Fire ministry, describes God’s unmerited favor and love given to us – a gift that when shared with others, comes back to us. It’s a revelation of God’s love for us and humanity.
This concept is a powerful way to understand grace. It’s not just a one-time gift, but a dynamic and ongoing relationship with God. (Ephesians 2:8)
The “loop” begins with God’s initial offer of grace. It’s like a divine invitation to enter into a loving relationship. One can think of it as a bridge that God extends to us, not because we’ve earned it, but because He loves us deeply and wants us to experience His goodness and mercy.
Many of the adults present at Saint Damien Parish shared this experience, even going on to say that grace does not shield us from suffering. Rather, it “gives us the strength to face it.” Others expressed how grace is an “experience of God’s friendship” and an invitation to “life in the Spirit.”
As we respond to this invitation, we find ourselves in a state of openness, a receptive stance where we are more aware of God’s presence and influence in our lives. This response isn’t just a passive acceptance, but an active engagement where we strive to align our actions and attitudes with God’s will. (2 Corinthians 9:8)
The “loop of grace” is an ongoing exchange. As we embrace the grace given through prayer, the sacraments, service and our relationships with creation and people, we grow in virtue and deepen our relationship with God. This reality, in turn, makes us more aware of how to be a conduit of grace to others. It’s a continual cycle where grace flows from God to us, and from us, it extends outward to those around us.
The beauty of this cycle is that it emphasizes relationships over mere transactional encounters. Grace is not about a set of rules or rewards, but about a living, breathing connection with God. Each moment of grace is a reminder of His enduring love and a call to respond with love and action in return. It’s a profound and ongoing journey, and through it, we understand that grace is not just a blessing we receive, but a living force that shapes and defines our relationship with God and others.
As a parishioner shared, grace compels us not to bid others “farewell” or “take care” but instead, “Travel with grace!”
Michael Sims, Th.D., is the director of the Office of Life & Justice Ministries for the Diocese of Camden.
at the bottom and then tap “Add to Home Screen”
