Nature and grace

Do people change? Occasionally we see how alcoholics have been transformed as a result of taking action and attending AA. But that sort of dramatic change is not too frequent.

Theology talks about how grace builds on nature. Certainly the practice of good habit leads to a virtuous person. But are we doomed or graced from the moment of our conception?

This week I met an elderly Dominican, he is now in his 80s and still working hard every day, serving people and being kind to them. Still up at 06.00 to pray and work. But that's his nature. He is a good man and always was. God has been good to him. And it has been a privilege to know him.