I had to read it in the Bible before I saw it alive in my life. I encountered the concept of sustaining grace as I studied the story of the widow of Zarephath in 1 Kings 17, but it would take the next 20 years to see its truth revealed in my life. Let’s study the text first:

The poem, “Footprints in the Sand” is probably one of the most well-known inspirational poems in circulation.  It is known by Christians and non-Christians; you see it on posters, mugs, and greeting cards.  What has made this poem so popular is not marketing or commercials.  In its most widely circulated form only the words Author Anonymous take credit for the poem.  No, this poem is well known because of its simple and powerful message:

I see it in contrast to delivering grace by Vaneetha Rendall Risner in her post “The Gift of Sustaining Grace.”

I need sustaining grace because I am not self-sufficient. No one is self-sufficient. I cannot find a similar or corroborating interpretation to Luke 4 by any scholar, pastor, blogger or bliblical commentary anywhere in print or on the internet. Jesus quotes the saying, ‘Physician, heal thyself!’ I think I have an original thought. What do you think?

This is a special edition post. Before we move forward, I want to take a break and take a deep breath with you. So whatever you’re doing right now, after you come to the end of this sentence, take two long breaths in and out.