United Methodist Church Of Westlake Village

Send us a textGrace transforms even the most broken souls, but only if we dare to believe we're worthy of it. This powerful truth emerges as we begin our Lenten journey through Victor Hugo's masterpiece, Les Misérables, examining how theological concepts manifest in this beloved narrative.Jean Valjean's story captivates us from his first appearance—a man imprisoned nineteen years for stealing bread to feed starving children. His graceless existence changes forever when a bishop not only forgives his theft but gifts him valuable candlesticks, offering redemption when punishment seemed more fitting. This unexpected grace becomes the catalyst for Valjean's transformation, mirroring how divine love operates in our own lives.The heart of our exploration centers on Paul's profound teaching to the Ephesians: "saved by grace through faith." These seemingly simple words contain life-changing power. Why must grace come through faith? Because unconditional love remains merely theoretic