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“But the free gift is not like the trespass. For if many died through one man’s trespass, much more have the grace of God and the free gift by the grace of that one man Jesus Christ abounded for many.” Romans 5:15 (ESV)

Love the elusive search for the perfect gift. Yes, this past week I headed out to the store to find a special birthday present. Now, this wasn’t your ordinary celebration – it was a big one for a sweet friend – which means I wasn’t settling for just anything. Bet you know too that finding the perfect gift is harder than it seems. But that didn’t deter me – I just kept driving, searching and shopping until the mission was accomplished.

Positively sure my friend will love her present. Convinced she will appreciate all my effort and determination to celebrate her. After all, you gotta celebrate the big numbers.

Got me thinking – how diligently do I  seek and search for opportunities to share the most amazing gift. The perfect gift I’ve had for most of my lifetime. The one real gift guaranteed to last throughout eternity.

What’s the perfect, most amazing gift ever?

It’s the gift of believing, following and loving Jesus. It’s the sweetness of His presence even on days when we totally forget about Him. It’s the sheer joy of knowing our sins have been forgiven and cast into the depths of the ocean. It’s the wonder of Jesus’ incredible love surrounding us. It’s His amazing grace covering all of us. It’s the simple pleasure of knowing we are His, held close to His heart forever.

The list is endless. Best gift to share with others, yet I hate to admit I often fall short in sharing this gift. Distractions. Fear. Busyness. Intimidation. Bet you could add a few things to this ever-growing list too. Lots of excuses and reasons. None of which are welcomed by the One who told us to go to all the world and preach the gospel of Jesus Christ (Mark 16:15).

So sweet friends this is where we land – a beautiful Savior who gave His life for us – entrusting us with His story. Beckoning us to tell the good news – we can be forgiven of our sins. We can live for all eternity in a home He has prepared for us. We can endure the trials of this world with Jesus by our side. He will be the friend who never leaves or forsakes us. And Jesus longs for us to seize opportunities to share His love with others.

No gimmicks or tricks. Just simple truth – God loved us so much that He willingly gave His only Son (Jesus) so that whoever believes in Him wouldn’t perish but have everlasting life (John 3:16). If you’ve never opened this most amazing gift sweet friend, I’m praying you will. Don’t’ settle for less. Place your faith and trust in Him. Confess your sins and surrender your heart to the One who loves you more than you dared imagine. And then, join me in telling His story to our world –  He’s the best gift ever.

“Father, forgive us for failing to seize every chance to tell Your story with those we meet. Rid us of excuses and help us share the best gift found in You alone.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life