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CONLEY COMMENTARY (WSAU) – My church did something wonderful last weekend. A group of volunteers did yard work for people who needed help. Members of The Cross mowed and raked.
And at last Sunday’s service, I thanked our colunteers. And then I asked a pointed question. “So, do you think you are raking your way into heaven?”
I think the answer is ‘no’. God doesn’t care how many yards you rake. Or how many times you help stock the food pantry. Or even how much money you put in the collection plate.
You are saved by grace. You can’t work your way into heaven. No matter how much good I do, I’m still a sinner. I still fall short of God’s glory. Only Christ’s blood, shed on the cross, can save me.
So, what’s the point of raking?
It is this: because I am saved, I can live my life differently. I should be more generous towards others as a way of showing thanks. If someone needs a ride, I can give it to them even with $4 gas. If someone is hungry, I can feed them. If someone needs money, I can be generous. If someone needs some yard work done… why not?
Those who are Christ followers are already assured of their place in paradise. It is because of that that we are freed to live generous and bold lives.
Chris Conley
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