Grace is Gracious even when unrecognized

Like most people, I like to consider myself a gracious person.  Recently my "graciousness" came under some significant pressure.  Nobody drove me to lose my temper.  Nor did anyone go behind my back or try to take advantage of me.  I simply realized that some of the grace I was extending was going unrecognized.  At first, I got a little annoyed and asked myself, "Don't they realize what I am doing for them?"  I started to allow a bad attitude to arise within my thoughts and body language.  I could of easily digressed from there, but thankfully the Holy Spirit gave me one of those very timely spiritual "checks."  I prayed that I would have the strength to persevere and not let my personal feelings ruin something wonderful. 
You see, the whole matter revolves around my desire to disciple up and coming leaders.  I often give people projects and other opportunities.  This process affords them room to grow and develop their ministry skills.  However, this particular occasion was a little more personal than most.  I was giving away an opportunity that honestly, I wanted to accomplish.  I suppose that was why I started to get irritated.  I asked God to help me think this one through.  There was no doubt in my mind that I was doing the right thing by giving the opportunity away, but my fallen nature was being selfish.  I did not like that "I" was not being recognized for what "I" was giving away.  As I was thinking and praying I quickly realized that grace is gracious even when unrecognized.  True grace does not care if it is recognized and applauded.  It does not withhold itself until it receives something in return.  It is offered because grace is simply - gracious.  There can be no better example than the  grace Christ gave as He said, "Forgive them for they don't know what  they are doing."  He was extending an Amazing amount of Grace and forgiveness even though all of humanity was ignorant of what was really occurring.  So I pray and I pray often, "Lord help me to be gracious."  I'll keep discipling and giving away opportunity to young leaders because that is what He called me to do.  As I continue, I pray I do it with grace.
Take a moment to ask yourself if you need the same spiritual check the Holy Spirit graciously gave to me.  God Bless and be sure to Disciple the up and coming. 
- Paul LaRose