Today's Devotional

August 3, 2005

Subject:  What's The Catch?

Romans 11:6 - "And if by grace, then is it no more of works: otherwise grace is no more grace. But if it be of works, then it is no more grace: otherwise work is no more work."

There's just got to be one.  Nobody does something for nothing.  That was the way some viewed our church giveaway of free bar b que this past weekend.  Some drove by looking at the big sign saying "Free Bar B Que," but kept on driving.  Many who stopped tried to make donations which we refused and said to them, "we'd prefer you come and join us one Sunday morning for worship."  Strangely they would usually stay and talk longer after hearing those words.  

In today's world of marketing gimmicks and fast-talking salesmen in the church as well as elsewhere, it's difficult for people to know when people are trying to "use them" for other purposes.  The question most had was surely, "why is this bar b que free when I would pay for it?"  The answer from the church should be, "because we have a priceless gift that we want to give to you.  You can't afford it, but it was already purchased for you."  Then our actions must match our beliefs. 

Surely the church needs resources to continue functioning.  It needs money and people to do the work of the church, but today we've got to realize that our great marketing strategies for the church should culminate in getting out an invaluable gospel message.  A message with no strings attached that speaks to the fact that money, works, position or status can't buy you what Christ offers through His grace.  So what's the catch?  Like the bar b que, your salvation has already been paid for and it is free to all who stop by and receive it. 

Carlen