Today I went to an event where hundreds of people were honored, along with their families. There were gifts, bounce houses, games, fishing, rides, lots of food, and a general environment of fun and relaxation. Did these people deserve to be honored? Most definitely! But could they have expected to be honored in this way and by the selfless love of hundreds of volunteers. Could they expect the generosity of hundreds of people giving time and money? Probably not!
The Bible calls this sort of thing grace. Grace is favor that cannot be earned and should not be expected. Jesus told the story of the Prodigal Son, who took his inheritance, from a father who was still living, and squandered it in a foreign land. He was destitute and returned to his father. The father did not scold or shame the son, but rather welcomed him home and threw a big celebration in the son’s honor. The son could not have expected to be honored in this way.
God, and all of heaven, celebrates when we come to the Heavenly Father. Should we expect such honor? Heavens no! We have not done anything to deserve such love. Ephesians 2:8-9 says, “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.” God waits eagerly for us to come to Him. When we do, He will give us the biggest embrace and throw the grandest celebration. What are you waiting for? Let’s celebrate!
Reluctant Retiree 