In Methodism, the means of grace are ways in which God works invisibly in disciples, quickening, strengthening and confirming faith.
Works of Piety:
Individual Practices–
Prayer
Fasting
Searching the Scriptures
Healthy Living
Communal Practices:
Holy Communion
Baptism
Christian Conferencing (or “community”)
Works of Mercy:
Service focused toward needs
Doing Good works
Visiting the Sick
Visiting the Imprisoned
Feeding & Clothing those in need
Earning, Saving, Giving all one can
Service focused toward communal/societal needs-
I find the categories interesting, there are a lot of things on this list done apart from the body; our focus is usually that which is done within the body of Christ: corporate worship, prayer, the sacraments, the proclamation of the Word, etc… On my list, I also add Christian fellowship and suffering as a means by which God extends grace into our lives through his Holy Spirit.
Cool stuff, I am glad to have discovered your ongoing blogdom… ;-)
Blessings,
win