How to find rescue from your pain

As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient…. But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy,made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. - Ephesians 2:1-5

A man put up a sign in his yard that read “Puppies for Sale.” Among those who came to inquire was a young boy from the neighborhood. “Please, mister,” he said, “I’d like to buy one of your puppies.”

“Well, son, they’re $25.”

The boy looked crushed. “I’ve only got two dollars and five cents. Could I see them anyway?”

“Of course,” said the man.

The lad’s eyes lit up at the sight of those five little balls of fur. “That one has a bad leg,” said the man. “I’m afraid she’ll be crippled for life.”

“Well, that’s the puppy I want. Could I pay for her a little at a time?”

The man responded, “But she’ll always have a limp.” Smiling bravely, the boy pulled up one pant leg, revealing a brace. “I don’t walk good either.” Then, looking at the puppy, he continued, “I guess she’ll need a lot of love and help. I sure did. It’s not so easy being crippled.”

“Here, take her,” said the man. “I know you’ll give her a good home. And just forget the money.”

Because of sin in our lives, we’re just like that little crippled puppy. But when Jesus looks at you, He also looks down at His nail-pierced hands and feet and says, “I’ll give you a good home.” It’s because of those scars that He can sympathize with your pain and weakness and calls you home to be with Him forever!

Prayer Challenge

Thank God that, despite the sin and shame that covers us, Jesus Christ rescued us from sin so that we could have eternal life!

Questions for Thought

How does it make you feel that Jesus rescued us from the curse of sin and brings you to eternal life?

What response should we have to Christ’s invitation to live with Him forever?

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