Yard Sale Treasure

And you, who were dead in your trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses, by canceling the record of debt that stood against us with its legal demands. This he set aside, nailing it to the cross. He disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him. (Colossians 2:13-15 ESV). Last week Kyle and Brandy had a yard sale in which we had some things to be sold as well. One of the items was an old pastel drawing I had done when I was in college for Mary. It was a still life of a very sad looking dog. I remember when I did it and why I made it so sad. It was a time when I had gone home for a few weeks and would not be able to see Mary since she remained at her home in Bryan. I really didn’t think anyone would buy it, but it seemed like something we would want to part with; so, we priced it at a dollar with the frame and placed it for sale. A young lady came to the yard sale. She saw the sad puppy and remarked how sad he was. I told her the story and she remarked how she collected pictures of sad clowns and animals. She also told me that she didn’t want to buy it either! I said, “Do you like it?” She answered, “Yes.” I simply said, “What if I give it to you?” She was delighted. She did buy other things, but that was one of her “treasures.” I even autographed the back for her. As I was helping her load her purchases into her car we began to talk. I told her my story of how I had met Mary and ultimately was born again. I found out quickly she was also a believer and a little more of her story. It was a great moment to share with her the gift of God in Christ. Our reading today is very clear of how we have a debt that only Jesus can pay. In fact, he paid it in full so that he might give us eternal life in return. I was reminded of this principle especially as I negotiated some of the prices with buyers for the items they were interested in. I was also reminded that there is no negotiation between us and God for our forgiveness and eternal life. There was a great price to be paid; however, he sent his only begotten Son to pay it for us. We no longer have a debt, because he paid what we could never pay! The ultimate gift of grace and love has been proffered to us. When we see that painting we like, but don’t have the money for, all we need to do is reach out to accept it as a gift from Him. And, he autographs it in his very own blood! Jesus paid it all. All to him I owe. Sin had left a crimson stain. He washed it white as snow! Now that’s a successful yard sale treasure!