Grace and my flesh

Sunday in Church we began a new series, "What is a Christian?" It was fabulous! I am looking forward to next Sunday, very much :)
I drive a wonderful friend home every week, she is new to America, and still a bit overwhelmed by all this "Christianity." We were able to have some quiet reflection as the miles went and then began to digest what was heavily on our hearts. It was frustrating and delightful to hash out some of the mistaken identity in what a Christian should be like; to put it bluntly, it forced us both to want to dig in to the Bible to get a very clear understanding of who Christ is-that we may be associated by His likeness. It is a journey, discipleship tends to be :) I have no doubt that it is going to be messy, difficult, joyful, and exciting as we try to lay aside the stereotypical view and try to focus in on Christ alone as the example, that we may truly be called Christians!
This week I began reading "The Ragamuffin Gospel" by Brennan Manning. It is certainly refreshing! One particular part has glued it's truth to heart, and I HAVE to share it!! I think that out of context, it still will jolt that flesh and massage your Spirit :)
"Our response to the love of Jesus demands trust. do we rely on our resume or the gospel of grace?"