Our society is fixated on getting things for free. We love the word, and when it’s in all CAPS, we’ll drive across town drive in order to obtain the free item, whether it’s a dozen eggs, a toolbox or a latte. Even the internet is littered with “free offers”. The truth is…the gas to get to the store and back costs more than the price of the “free” item. A person can be so fixated on the item, they easily forget the cost.
Something that is truly free, that we actually need, at no cost to us, would be of great benefit. Here is where I am going with this. Man has broken God’s commandments and has fallen short of His standards. And just like in a court of law, when the law is broken, there is a consequence. That consequence is eternal separation from God in a very real place called hell. Fortunately for the whole of mankind there is a solution. God, who created us and loves us, knew we would fall short of following His law, and therefore had a grand plan. That plan was to send His Son Jesus to pay our penalty.
What is the catch? What do we owe Him for that? Nothing. Eph. 2:8-9 says, “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone boast.” This is what the Bible calls salvation. We are saved from the consequence for breaking God’s law because Jesus took our place and paid our fine. This salvation is a free gift!
One which a person can accept by understanding they have broken God’s law and need His free gift of salvation. This gift of God simply has to be received. There are no strings attached!
Often times, free is not free. We sign up for a free sample of product XYZ only to pay the shipping charges. Other times, the free gift is useless. Who needs a goldfish brush or another keychain with a compass that doesn’t point north? With the free gift of salvation that God offers through His Son Jesus, both aspects are covered. First of all, the gift really is free. After we have been saved and forgiven, we might serve or do good works, but those things are done as a heartfelt response to receiving God’s free gift, NOT in order to obtain it. Second, the free gift is needed. Mankind needs Jesus. He is the only one who can rescue us from hell, guide us spiritually, teach us about eternal things, and give us everlasting life. That is why Jesus makes the statement in John 14:6, “I am the way, the truth, and the life, and no man comes to the Father except by me.” His statement is exclusive, but the invitation goes out to all.
There is a daunting adventure ahead, but Jesus will guide us. Yes, the Bible is a very deep and profound Book, but receiving the gift of forgiveness of sins is simple. Jesus desires for all to come to Him and be forgiven. Come to Him and find rest. Come to Him and be FREE.
PD