For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith–and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God

“It’s Free”

We all are familiar with statements like:
“You get what you pay for”,
“you don’t get something for nothing”.

I don’t  know about you but I am suspicious, no down right unbelieving when I get something in the mail (bulk rate) which boldly announces you have been chosen to receive $199.95 value necklace of genuine faux pearls.  Please send $19.95 for postage and handing so you can receive your free gift.

But no matter how skeptical and doubtful, we keep on hoping and trying anyway. Oh, how we hope and try.  Look at the lottery.

I read about a man doing some back-yard landscaping who went to buy some bricks.  When he inquired about the cost, the sales clerk replied:  “The more you buy, the cheaper they are.”  “Is that so? Then just keep loading them on my truck until they’re free.”

Given our skepticism, it is not surprising then how difficult it is for us to understand one of the great words of the gospel–GRACE. It is a word so central to the Good News, that one can hardly speak of Jesus and his work for us without in someway mentioning “grace” or at least the idea if not the word.

The writer of Ephesians says, “by grace you have been saved”.  To make sure it is clear, he adds, “and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God”.

In it’s general meaning, then, it is undeserved favor, blessing, but specifically, what God has done for you in Jesus.

The wonder and glory of a salvation “so rich  and free” and we can’t believe it.  IT IS A GIFT! IT IS FREE!

By faith reach out and take it!

Filed under: The Journey | Tagged: Faith, Grace |