One thing that separates man from all other animals, other than his ability
to drive and text at the same time, is his desire to negotiate, or better yet to
deal. No matter what we are offered, it seems we think we can do better. Maybe
it is all based on pride, because in wishing to deal, it is all about us.
"You can have what Jay is bringing down the aisle, or keep what is in my
pocket, or choose what is behind door number 1, number 2, or number 3." Without
even finishing the sentence, we all know that was Monty Hall, on the iconic game
show "Let's Make a Deal." Where greedy, border line crazy people would dress up
as weird things, like a toaster, or a pair of salt and pepper shakers, then pay
an admission to sit in the audience, and hopefully get picked by Monty, as he
strolled the aisles between the psychos, offering them money if they had a
certain item on them. "Does anyone have a life preserver from the Titanic?
Does anyone have rice from their wedding? Does anyone have a note from their
old boss to be here today?" And when someone did, Monty would give them a $100
bill from the roll in his pocket. Back when a $100 was a day's pay. And then
would continue to make deals with them, from what is in the box Jay is bringing
down the aisle, and then finally the big winner got to choose from behind one of
three doors and get the big prize. And hope he didn't get zonked! And end up
with a sloth, or orangatan, or a pair of hyenas. Still want to deal?
The big prize could be a dining room suit, or an electric stove, or a vacation. Or something useful like a lobotomy. But most times it was a year's supply of Beefo the dog food, or some Rice-a Roni treat, or a key that won't unlock a special box, which had more dog food, or chain lube or something else. But the greed always came out and the shot at the big deal kept the audience shouting, and a shine on Monty's vivid colored blazer. And if you were the big winner, the IRS was there to get its 28% off the top, cash. Such a deal. Monty-HELP! Maybe they should plead insanity. Except the IRS is not known for making a deal. But they know how much 28% per cent of an alpaca is.
The big prize could be a dining room suit, or an electric stove, or a vacation. Or something useful like a lobotomy. But most times it was a year's supply of Beefo the dog food, or some Rice-a Roni treat, or a key that won't unlock a special box, which had more dog food, or chain lube or something else. But the greed always came out and the shot at the big deal kept the audience shouting, and a shine on Monty's vivid colored blazer. And if you were the big winner, the IRS was there to get its 28% off the top, cash. Such a deal. Monty-HELP! Maybe they should plead insanity. Except the IRS is not known for making a deal. But they know how much 28% per cent of an alpaca is.
But while man loves to deal, it is not the way of God. For some reason
when we carry this trait into a relationship with God, we lose. It isn't that
God is Monty, and you takes yer chances, it is God is a God of promises. And
they don't depend on you, and don't need your participation. God promises
eternal life to those who accept Jesus, not based on conditions, or what we do.
He shows grace, unmerited favor, not based on what we do, but upon who Jesus
is. And who we are, but what Jesus did. For while we were yet sinners, He died
for us. You don't have to deal for salvation, it is a gift! Either you say
yes, or no. There is no better deal to be worked out, or compromise on God's
part to get us to join. But yet we fall back into our old traits, religious
falsehoods, or denominational binds when left to our own devices. We sin,
forget about God's grace, and promise to pray more, go to church more, and well,
you get it. If only God will take my offer....Hoping to find favor with God
until we screw up again. If we want something bad enough, we might even fast
for it. Telling all who care to listen, and most who don't how Godly we are,
fasting for a prize. When God knows all the time. You see God is not like
Monty, handing out gifts to greedy people who will do anything for it. He is a
God of grace, love, mercy, and compassion. A Father who loves to give good
gifts, and knows the best things for us. And He knows of what He is doing.
Even when Lot tried to deal with Him about Sodom, He knew the answer, and it
didn't change the outcome. Wouldn't it be easier to just take His advice, His
guidance, and follow His direction the first time? But we don't, so He reminds
us that obedience is better than sacrifice. Sacrifice, there are no deals on
sacrifice. Should have taken grace, and been obedient.
So next time someone tells you of a new gospel, or a new way to God, or all
paths lead to God, remember we all are not children of God. Jesus tells us some
are children of their father the devil, they follow his ways, and sadly their
outcome will be like his. They resist the offer, hoping to deal with Satan
instead. With God a promise is a promise, no deals needed. So don't try to
make one. His already is the best offer you will ever get, take it. Based on
Him, not on you. His promises are yea and amen. I don't even want to know what
yours are. And anything else is a lie.
So become part of the promise of God by accepting Jesus today. Become part
of Abram's seed. For in each generation of his next of kin, one was chosen.
One took the promise. Passing along the seed of Abraham until it reached
Jesus. And when it ultimately ended up with Jesus-there is the ultimate
promise. A promise that keeps its promise, and needs no deal.
Perhaps the ultimate deal, the truth. Why take the chance when you can
have it all? Accept the free gift of Jesus Christ today. God promises. Now
that's a deal!
Why risk it all for earthly gain and lose your soul?
love with compassion,
Mike
matthew25biker.blogspot.com