What a Deal!
A new Dollar Tree store just opened up dangerously close to my house. I get a little giddy about saving money, so I’m sure I’ll be a frequent shopper. Many of my friends know what a fan I am of Aldi–another place to save money. There’s that one aisle where you never know what you’ll find. I’ve purchased everything from a wall clock to an electric fireplace to lawn chairs to my very soft and cozy pajamas you see pictured. (I made the wise decision to not pose in them for the picture.) Believe me, none of those things were on my grocery list, but what a deal! Most of my other clothes are from consignment shops or the sale racks at Target. I prefer the term “frugal” rather than “cheap”, thank you. And, yes, there are some things that I have to spend more on because in some cases you get what you pay for, right?
I used to be a little embarrassed to admit that I did a majority of my grocery shopping at Aldi, or that I had purchased something from the Dollar Tree or a thrift store. It didn’t seem very classy, especially when compared to the buying practices of my more name brand conscious friends. Name brands just don’t mean much to me. (When that movie “The Devil Wears Prada” came out years ago I had no idea what the title meant. I’d never heard of Prada!) After a while I just had to start sharing about the deals I was finding and the money I was saving. Over time, I’ve known a fair number of people who eventually braved it, humbled themselves and gave one of these stores a try. And most of them have loved the experience and continue to go back.
Now, this is not an ad for Aldi or Dollar Tree, but I’ve got to share some parallels I’ve seen when it comes to sharing my faith. You see, the very best, most life-changing deal I’ve come across in my entire life is, well, not actually a deal. It is an absolutely FREE gift! Our God–the very God who created you and me–has offered each of us the free gift of salvation through belief in His Son Jesus Christ, who was born, lived and eventually died in our place. We all deserve death because we have all sinned. No amount of good things we do are enough before a perfect, holy God. Jesus took our place. But He didn’t stay dead. He rose again and lives forever. Those who accept the free gift of salvation through Jesus Christ will inherit eternal life. It’s a free gift, but, unlike my store purchases, it is invaluable and has eternal significance.
Just as I used to be a little embarrassed to share my shopping habits, I used to be more afraid to share about this amazing free gift. Afraid to offend, I suppose. Or feeling unequipped to defend my faith. But how can I stay silent? I care about the people around me too much to keep this a secret. Anyone can call on the name of Jesus at anytime. You can confess your sin and need for a Savior and invite Jesus into your life. This begins a whole new exciting relationship with the living God that is life-changing!
People’s reactions to starting a relationship with Jesus have at times mirrored some reactions to my shopping choices: doubtful, suspicious, curious, dismissive… But for those who have decided to accept the gift of salvation, I’ve never known anyone who regretted the decision. The freedom found in Christ and the peace it affords are truly life-changing. It can set your entire life on a different course. Why wouldn’t someone accept this gift? Let’s face it–It takes a step of faith and humility. Pride can really get in the way of accepting this gift. Some people have been committed to a different faith or religion and it just doesn’t seem right to change. But I know that other faiths and religions do not offer the grace and forgiveness and constant presence of the Holy Spirit that faith in Jesus offers.
I don’t know who all my readers are, but if you are already a believer, I encourage you to share about how knowing Jesus has changed your life. Don’t keep it a secret! If you have not yet accepted the gift of salvation, you can today! If you need a little guidance to take this step of faith you can send me a message on my contact page. I would be honored to hear from you.
Two little phrases I will leave with you today: Pride prevents peace. Healthy humility heals hearts. Don’t let pride get in the way of considering a relationship with Jesus Christ. And, fellow believer, consider how you can humbly share the most important gift you’ve ever been given.
Now, where did I put that Aldi ad?…
“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith–and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God–not by works, so that no one can boast.” (Ephesians 2:8-9)
