FOREWORD

Grace. 

A common word, but possessing other-worldly transformational power. Those in church circles have heard and sung the term “grace” so often, that its glorious majesty is rarely fully experienced. Those outside the church see the word “grace” plastered on church signs or slogans, but rarely personally taste the reality of it.

This can be quickly and radically changed, however, by a careful, reflective reading of “Encountering Grace.” Franco has crafted a challenging, yet accessible opportunity to personally experience and encounter the life changing and life giving power of grace. 

Through each chapter, you will be taken on a soul-searching journey that invites an intimate engagement with the presence of God. Each chapter also contains a series of reflection questions that can be used individually or in group study. However one chooses to utilize it, a promising reward awaits the careful and attentive reader.

Because “grace” is so essential to our lives as believers, this work by Franco serves an important function: to actually ENCOUNTER grace. In fact, not just to encounter grace but to then be a vessel where others encounter grace through us. 

An old proverb has stated that “to know, and not do, is to not yet know.” Many believers, in not living in “the intersection of love, mercy, strength, and forgiveness” (p#?) miss the “tasting” of what has been promised. They live in the recipe book (rules and regulations), but never eat of the sumptuous meal that has been placed before them. Grace is that meal, embodied fully in Jesus Christ, the One who is “full of grace and truth.”

I should also say a word about the book’s author. I first met Franco as a student at the Christian college where I was teaching at the time more than fifteen years ago. I remember well his driving desire to see and experience “in real time” those things being discussed. Theories were fine, but their practical application even better. This book brings the power of “grace” into real time and invites application on every page. 

The journey you are about to undertake will not disappoint – drink deeply!!

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