St. Thérèse of Lisieux once said, “Everything is grace.” At first glance, it’s a simple phrase. But when we pause and unpack it, we discover a profound truth that can transform how we see every moment of our lives.
The Catechism of the Catholic Church defines grace as “favor, the free and undeserved help that God gives us to respond to his call… a participation in the life of God” (CCC 1996–1997). Grace isn’t earned. It’s a gift—freely given, deeply personal, and always available. And it’s not abstract. It’s God’s very life offered to us, drawing us into communion with the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
This means that every experience—joyful or painful—is an opportunity to receive grace. Jesus, fully human, walked through every emotion we know: celebration, grief, betrayal, anger, compassion, and triumph. In each of these, He opened a path for us to meet God. When we rejoice, God rejoices with us. When we suffer, He holds us close. Grace is not just present—it’s participatory.
But here’s the catch: we must be open to it. Grace doesn’t force itself on us. If we choose spiritual blindness, we may miss the gift entirely. Yet if we ask for eyes to see, we’ll begin to recognize grace in real time—not just in hindsight.
So today, let’s try a new lens. Let’s look at our lives—our routines, our relationships, our struggles—and ask: “Where is grace here?” Let’s thank God not only for the blessings but also for the crosses, trusting that each one is a thread in the tapestry of sanctification.
St. Thérèse lived this truth daily, and it led her to heaven. May we follow her example, receiving grace in all things, and returning love for love.
🎵 Consider listening to Matt Maher’s song “Everything is Grace” to let this truth sink deeper into your heart.
Smitten With Goodness 