Barbara, as most mothers, spent a lot of time, thought, energy—downright hard work on our kids. For a number of years, they were the primary focus of her life in spite of jobs, church and a pretty high- maintenance-husband. I have never heard her complain. I have never heard any regrets. It was an act of love.
Those “kids” are now in their 40’s and 50’s. They are having successful and I believe fulfilling lives. They have had a couple of rocky spots. That is an expected part of life.
What payment does she want? The pleasure of seeing them have rich, fulfilling and rewarding lives. She does not expect any repayment other than that and experiencing their love.
I was thinking this morning that Jesus has poured a lot of himself into my life. Not just my salvation but on a daily ongoing basis. He has kept me safe in many situations both physically and spiritually. He gives me daily guidance. He forgives me and puts me on the right path. He has been patient with me in times of downright rebellion and disobedience.
After enumerating some of those things I thought, “I really hope I have lived a good enough life to deserve the investment he made in me”. I knew I haven’t. I have failed in lots and lots of ways.
Immediately a thought came that could only come from Jesus. “I did it because I love you. Not for what you can do for me”. That was a sobering thought. Jesus does not invest himself in me because of what I can do for him. But simply for what he, out of love, can do for me.
Sounds like Grace to me.
Must be why one of the New Testaments favorite terms for Followers of Jesus is “Children Of God”.
But to all who believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God.
John 1:12 NLT