While looking through the newspaper flyers, I noticed that one of my favourite stores had oil filters and grinding wheels on sale. Needing both, I went and purchased them. On the way out of the store, I looked at the bill which said, “Total: $20.45” and, happily, “Today you saved: $41.33”.
I love that “Today you saved” line! It always makes me feel good to see a big number there. Everyone likes getting more than they paid for which, of course, is why the store includes that line on the bill in the first place. Everyone likes bargains!
That being the case, here is an even better offer for you: “He [God] saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel” (1 Timothy 1:9-10).
I love the line that says that we are saved and made holy “not because of anything we have done” but because of God’s grace.
Over the years, lots of people have told me that they will come to church as soon as they get their life sorted out. That is completely backward, and it will never work! The church does not exist for those who think they are good and have everything figured out. Rather, church is for those who realize that they cannot sort things out and, therefore, need help. Faith is not about our ability or goodness. Instead, it is based on God’s grace and kindness. He does for us what we cannot ever do for ourselves.
Our goodness is never good enough. In fact, if we try to make it by our own strength, we will always fall short. However, the good news is that God offers us a new beginning and a new life.
There is no better deal than that!
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