Why should God let you into Heaven?

I met Dr. Mike today. He is a very good, real Christian man, the kind you want to emulate. I want to be like him when I grow up.

Early on, he asked me if I was saved. I was honest with him and said I thought I was but was unsure.

"I'm a skeptic." I said. "I think there is value in asking questions to find the answers. There is nothing I can say, believe or do that will get me into heaven. I guess I will find out at the Gates there."

Dr. Mike asked, "What if God asked, 'Why should I let you in?'"

The answer came to me instantly (a miracle in a way), "Because Jesus died for my sins."

Dr. Mike thought it was a good answer and so do I.

Thanks, Dr. Mike. You know how to ask good questions.

I'm a Rusty Tool

When I was the executive director at PERC, the Piedmont Emergency Relief Center, I got a lot of praise from clients for the assistance and direction I was able to provide them. I told them, " I am just a rusty tool being used by God." Then I would explain what I meant.

My garden tools don't look like they have just come off the store shelf. Sometimes, thinking I would return soon to finish my task, the tool would get left outside for some time. Of course it would get rusty.

Later I would return to get the tool - shovel, hoe, axe, etc. I noticed that the tool's rust would diminish as I used it.

For all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God.  Romans 3:23. This is a weight I feel. It's heavy. 

I am so rusty. So very rusty. There is no way I will go to heaven. I don't deserve it. I cannot earn it.

As I am used to help brothers and sisters, some of my rust comes off. Not because of anything I do, but because I am being used.

It gives me hope.