We commonly assume that grace is always “gracious”—quiet, not confronting, ever pleasant. But grace is rarely welcome news or even sweet to those intent on documenting their effort. Its greatest symbol—yes, the cross—is “foolishness” to those who stubbornly insist that their salvation hangs on prayers, on deeds, on penitential living. They stumble on the cross, for it completely blocks the self-willed way to heaven. Our hearts, unless reclaimed by grace, resist the gospel of salvation, for it proclaims our helplessness, our foolishness, our brokenness. But whom grace first offends, it offers finally Christ’s healing and His righteousness. Accept His grace—and stay in it.