John Wesley, the founder of the Methodist Movement, called the opportunities before us to grow in God our "Means of Grace." Our belief in and devotion to Jesus Christ is our primary means of grace. It is through this relationship that we are then able to experiences other means of grace. In Wesley's view means of grace can be understood at Works of Piety and Works of Mercy.

The works of piety are those inward things we can do to grow in God including prayer, Bible study and fasting. The works of mercy are those good things we do in the world including visiting the sick and imprisoned, feeding and clothing those in need and giving generously.

As we enter this time of Lent it might be a good time to reflect how we practice the means of grace. Are you feeling called to more or different works of piety or works of mercy? John Wesley preached that we must do both works of piety and works of mercy to move on toward Christian perfection. Are you feeling led toward a particular means of grace this Lenten season?