It does not matter who or what we are, there is absolute reinstatement into God by the death of Jesus Christ and by no other way, not because Jesus pleads, but because He died. It is not earned, but accepted.
–Oswald Chambers from My Utmost for His Highest
“I got the job!
Grant bursts through the porch door, tosses his backpack on a wicker chair, kicks size 13 shoes free and bombards the kitchen. His tall, strong build nearly fills the door frame.
Joy, pure and clear and bright, shines in his smile.
“Grant, I’m so happy for you,” I say. I wrap my arms around him. “Tell me about it.”
Grant sits on the kitchen stool, a rickety old thing that has become the sharing place, and tells me about his new job busing tables at an upscale restaurant in town.
“I talked with the manager for a long time,” he said. “He looked at my work history. And if my references check out, I’ll start Monday.”
Grant’s references will be fine. He has a strong work ethic and has done well with his jobs. At 12 years old, he detassled corn in the strong July sun.
When he was 15, he babysat all summer. At 16, he began working in an ice cream shop. Grant preforms well when he’s been given a job, and his work history is an asset to him.
As I listen to my boy share about this new adventure, I’m filled with pride. His happiness is contagious. It emanates from Grant and becomes my own. But as I listen, something else comes to heart, too.
This earning, the reward for a history of doing well, is so very different from the grace that flows from God.
If I think about it, if I break it down and look at the pared-back truth, there is nothing in my history that would make me worthy.
There’s no way I could earn an eternity with a holy God. There’s no performance that could be good enough. No work record. No job well done. My thought-life alone would be enough for me to stand condemned.
But the Lord has provided a way for me to be rescued.
Jesus reunites me with the Father through His perfect work of grace.
It’s so contrary to the world’s reward system. It has nothing to do with performance. It has everything to do with the love-nature of God.
And while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. (Romans 2:28, NIV)
Grant stays on that seat in the kitchen and continues to share. “Will you go with me to get the black pants I’ll need for my new job?” he asks.
Of course I’ll help him get what he needs. I want to celebrate with him, too.
“How about I bake a chocolate cake for dessert?” I ask.
“Thanks,” Grant says. “That would be great.”
It’s been a precious afternoon. Sharing the accomplishment of someone I love.
And pondering the unmerited favor of One who loves me.
Thank you, Lord, for the amazing gift of grace. Amen.
