Heading Straight In

"Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent." 
John 17:3 (NIV)

What would you say if God asked you why He should let you into heaven?

The New York Times ran a feature on former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg, who was then 72 years old and preparing for his 50th college reunion. Bloomberg was talking about how many of his classmates had died. The journalist noticed he didn't seem particularly worried about his own death. Pointing to his work on gun safety, obesity, and smoking, Bloomberg grinned, "I'm telling you, if there is a God, when I get to heaven, I'm not stopping to be interviewed. I am heading straight in. I have earned my place in heaven. It is not even close."

I'll give him this much. There won't be an interview.

But listen to how Jesus actually defines eternal life. In John 17:3 He says, "Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent." It’s not your church attendance or resume that Jesus highlights. It’s knowing Him.

Bloomberg is trying to pay for something that was freely given. You cannot earn what God already offers through Jesus Christ.

If you have been keeping a mental ledger of your faithfulness, put it down. Or maybe you struggle to let go of a few decisions you regret. Let it all go. The debt you owe was settled at the cross. 

God doesn't want your achievements. He wants you to know Him. That's the only way you’re heading straight in.

Prayer: Lord, thank You for letting go of my ledger and letting me in because of what You’ve done. When I try to earn what you freely offer, help me receive the gift. I want to know You, not just serve You. Thank You for Jesus, who makes that possible. In Jesus' Name, Amen.