Undeserved Gift

Bible Reading: Ephesians 1:7-9

Tinkling bells chimed invitingly as the ice cream truck turned onto Johanna’s street. Ice cream was one of her favorite treats, but it was just before lunchtime, so she was sure her grandma wouldn’t let her have anything now. Maybe I can still have a little fun with the ice cream truck driver! Johanna thought. She yelled loudly to get his attention as he drove by, then ducked behind a bush. The truck stopped, and the man got out expecting to sell something, but no one came to buy. Johanna snickered to herself when she saw his puzzled face.

“That was unkind,” said Grandma, and Johanna jumped in surprise. She had no idea Grandma had come out and was watching. “It was wrong for you to stop that man and make him think he was going to earn some money. Now come with me. You need to apologize.” Grandma led the way to the truck, which had not yet moved on.

Under Grandma’s watchful eye, Johanna told the driver she was sorry for playing a trick on him. Then Grandma bought an ice cream bar for each of them.

Johanna felt ashamed when her grandmother held out the treat. “No thanks, Grandma.”

“But I bought this for you,” said Grandma.

Johanna looked at the ground. “I don’t deserve it after what I did.”

“That’s true,” said Grandma, “but I want you to have it anyway—it’s a gift from me.” She continued to hold out the ice cream bar.

Reluctantly, Johanna took the treat and began to eat. It tasted so good and was very refreshing on such a hot day! “Thank you, Grandma,” she said.

Grandma smiled. “You’re glad you accepted my gift, aren’t you?”

Johanna nodded. “I am,” she said, “even though I don’t deserve it.”

“We don’t deserve God’s love and forgiveness either,” said Grandma, “but He offers it to us as a gift—a gift we need to accept. Jesus died on the cross to save us from sin so we can be forgiven and have eternal life with Him. But we can’t enjoy that gift until we accept it.”

“Just like this ice cream,” said Johanna. “I’ve accepted God’s gift, Grandma. I know Jesus has saved me and given me eternal life.” – Nance E. Keyes

How About You?

Do you trust Jesus as your Savior? Have you accepted His gift of eternal life? God offers it to everyone—including you. But it has to be accepted to be enjoyed. You don’t deserve it—but don’t push it away! Jesus wants you to accept His payment for your sin and trust in Him. Accept the undeserved but wonderful gift He offers. (See “The ABCs of Salvation” in the column to the right.)

Today’s Key Verse: Romans 6:23 The gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Today’s Key Thought:

Accept God’s gift