THE GREAT EXCHANGE
Stretch and bend,
Reach for the stars.
Here comes Jupiter,
There goes Mars.
Perhaps you, too, learned this song as a child?
This simple tune helps illustrate the various religions of the world. Man stretching, reaching, doing whatever to appease the gods.
For example, in ancient times babies were burned to secure the favor of a pagan god. Whether coerced or not, some cultures adhered to these demands because they believed the only way to ensure blessings, abundant crops, etc., was to sacrifice to chiseled stone or wood-carved gods.
Are we any different? Has the passage of time altered our thinking or do we still work to please a man-made god?
We all have a God-shaped vacuum in our hearts. Religions leave us searching, thirsty, lost. The world's standards - money, power, and fame - create a deeper void.
Not so with Jesus Christ.
Biblical accounts and historical findings document God reaching down to save us. He sent His son to die in our place! In contrast to world religions, we can’t impress God by good works, thoughts, or deeds. When we acknowledge we can do nothing to save ourselves and choose to accept God’s love and forgiveness, He meets us where we are!
So, let's forget about how to strive, to do life ourselves. God wants to wrap us in His love and freely pour out His blessings on us.
Where’s the catch, you ask?
There is none!
God’s word says we’ve all sinned and fallen short of His perfect plan for our lives (Rom.3:23). Because Jesus’ death on the cross paid the penalty for our sins and shortcomings, we’re forgiven. No blood-letting, human sacrifices, or boxes to check.
Instead, we exchange our brokenness for God's love, peace, and joy. He alone fills the void in our hearts.
Ready to make the great exchange?
By Amre Cortadino
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