The Right Name

Bible Reading: Acts 4:8-12; John 14:6

“Mom, I have a question,” Mason said as they drove to the shoe store. “Some of the kids at school say it doesn’t matter who you believe in to get to heaven—Mohammed or Buddha or whoever. Even my teacher says all religions lead to heaven.” Mason sighed. “How can I help them understand that’s wrong?”

“Only the Holy Spirit can convince them of that,” said Mom. “God can’t allow any sin in heaven, and the Bible is very clear that no one except Jesus can take away our sin. We need to point that out to people and pray for them, but only God can work in their hearts and convince them of the truth of His Word.”

When they arrived at the shoe store, Mason headed toward the display of the most expensive brand of shoes while Mom went to the discount brands. “How about these, Mom?” Mason held up a pair of shoes. “I want this kind.”

“Those are really expensive,” said Mom. She held up a cheaper pair. “How about these instead? I know it’s not the brand you want, but they look similar and cost a lot less.” Mason frowned, but when they left the store, he was carrying the less expensive shoes.

A few weeks later, Mason shuffled into the house after school. “One of the soles started peeling off my shoe when I was playing basketball today,” he told his mom.

“Oh dear,” said Mom. “I guess those really were cheap shoes after all! They weren’t able to keep up with all the running and playing you do.”

“Yeah,” said Mason. “Bretton has the brand of shoes I wanted. He’s had them for months and wears them all the time, and they still look great! I guess that’s why that brand name is so popular—it’s really high quality. The off-brands just don’t measure up.”

“Hmm,” said Mom. “Maybe that’s how you can tell the kids at school about Jesus. They want that brand of shoes because they know it’s the only one that measures up, and Jesus is the only one that measures up to God’s standards because only He could pay the high cost to take away our sin and give us eternal life.”

Mason smiled. “Thanks, Mom—I’ll tell them that. Let’s both pray the Holy Spirit helps them understand.” – Jessica C. Principe

How About You?

Who are you trusting to get you to heaven? The Bible says you must trust in Jesus because He’s the only way to God. We’ve all sinned, and God can’t allow sin in His presence. That’s why He sent His Son, Jesus, to die for us—so we could be freed from sin and have eternal life with Him. Trust Jesus as your Savior today! (See “The ABCs of Salvation” on page 108.)

Today’s Key Verse:
Acts 4:12 There is salvation in no one else! God has given no other name under heaven by which we must be saved. (NLT)

Today’s Key Thought:

Jesus is the only way to heaven