About 6 years ago I purchased an Isuzu i-350 pickup truck. I have tried to take care of it. Change the oil, keep good brake pads on it, check the fluids, standard maintenance stuff. In 1 month something very different will happen to that truck. It will change ownership from belonging to the bank to me. It will be paid for in full!
This got me thinking about the payment Jesus Christ made for me. He wasn't on a six year plan, he paid for me in one installment. His death on the cross. However, I didn't belong to Him when He paid for me.
I have had possession of my truck for the past 6 years while I have been paying it off. Jesus took possession of me when I was 6 years old. While I worked to pay off my truck for 6 years, Jesus waited for me to get ready to accept Him for 6 years.
Even though I have taken care of my truck, it has still needed some adjustments from time to time. It's alignment has been off, needed tires replaced, and all the old oil and grim removed on a regular basis. Likewise, since I have belonged to Jesus, there have been times my alignment has been off Christ an I have pulled to the left or right. I have allowed myself to be filled with "old oil" and grim of this world and needed the cleanliness of Christ put back in me. I have worn myself thin trying to be a Christian instead of just following Jesus. Yet He has "replaced my tires" when needed and gave me renewed strength.
I will keep my truck as long as I can. It's been a good truck and I'll keep taking care of it. I've needed some work over the years, but Jesus will keep me. I really like my truck, but it is nothing compared to how much Jesus loves me.
In Christ,
jon walton
