Hello friends. Many of you recently had an extra day off work for Labour Day, a day set aside to honour the dignity of a working person. Most of us pride ourselves in our ability to work hard, unlike the following humorous little story.
"A tramp knocked on a door and asked for something to eat. The owner told him he would give him a meal in exchange for some work. "See that pile of wood in the back? i would like you to saw it." The tramp replied, "You saw me see it, but you don't see me saw it."
Hard work not only gives the satisfaction of being productive, but it also allows us to enjoy the feeling of accomplishment. Did you know that the Bible often addresses this subject and speaks against laziness?
I have observed that many people today not only work hard at what they do, but also at being religious; doing good things to somehow gain God's favour, and consequently entrance into heaven. Those are loft ideals, but the question begs asking, "When have I done enough good to earn God's approval?" Having that mindset brings with it a frustration of not really knowing what my relationship to God is, accompanied by guilt, and an attitude of trying to work even harder.
God offers us wonderful news that offers a free gift of salvation, the forgiveness of sins, and the only way to heaven. We are told, "for by grace (undeserved favour) you have been saved through faith, (our part) and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast".
It is hard to find people who don't enjoy getting a good deal. God offers a deal that money can't buy and He has paid our sinful debt in full, through his Son's death and resurrection on our behalf. The freedom and reward this brings is literally out of this world.
We would be honoured to work with you for a clearer understanding of God's free gift.
Sincerely because of His gracious provision,
Pastor John Giesbrecht
