Eph. 2:8-9

"For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast." Eph. 2:8-9

Many years ago, a conference was held on world religions. During one of the sessions a discussion ensued about what was unique about Christianity among all the world religious systems. It's moral teachings are echoed by many religions. The incarnation is not unique. Other cultures have had gods becoming men. Resurrection? No, many myths speak of people and gods being raised from the dead. But each conferee had his own views on the subject and were striving to be heard.

C.S. Lewis was at this same conference. When he came into the room he said "What's the rumpus about?" And someone explained that his colleagues were discussing Christianity's unique contribution among world religions. "Oh, that's easy." Lewis replied. "It's grace."

This is so true. Because throughout world religious systems the message is always that you have to EARN your salvation. Do enough good deeds, make the proper sacrifices, perform the proper rituals, be buried with the right spells and you can be saved. But Christianity says that all the good deeds you do, all the sacrifices you make, all the gifts you give, all the rituals you perform will not bring you one millimeter closer to heaven. Instead of asking for you to climb the stairway to heaven, God himself comes down in the form of Jesus Christ, takes you in his arms and carries you.

Jesus' death on the cross was not a political statement nor was it an empty martyrdom for a cause. His death gives us life and his blood spilled over the writing of the charges against us so that they could not be read.

And his grace is abundant not only for salvation, but also to cover our failings after salvation. When I sin, I can bow before him, confess my sin and ask his forgiveness and that blood pours forth from Calvary cleansing my heart. And in the words of an old Southern Gospel song, "He gives me grace one more time."

Lord, I thank you today for your grace and for the terrible price you paid to give it to me. Amen and Amen.