FEBRUARY

A story is told of a brother and sister who were walking on ice together in Massachusetts. The boy was 9 and his sister 11. Suddenly they hit a thin spot in the ice and both fell through. They managed to kick their way to the surface and were screaming for help. Hearing their screams a man running, dove in and was trying to save them both. Realizing how difficult that would be, the boy told the man to forget him and save his sister. The man was able to save his sister, but the boy died.

Do you think the boy made a rational decision? Do you think he debated it in his mind and weighing the pros and cons he decided that his sister deserved saving more than he? Of course there was not time to reason it all out. Being a Christian, he immediately spoke because it was a part of him. He learned at home, at church, from parents and teachers to take Jesus as His Authority. It doesn’t seem normal to say, forget me save my sister. But when Jesus is the Authority in your life, it is possible!

If you were faced with a similar decision, what would you do? Many parents would sacrifice themselves for their children. Some people would even die for a close friend. Most people though given the choice would rather save themselves than someone else.

The instinct for self preservation is very strong in human beings. We stand in awe of the great love Jesus has shown us. Paul writes, but God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. (Romans 5:8)

Jesus didn’t die for the ones who are perfect saints, with halos on their heads.  He did not come to heal those who were already healthy. He did not live His life, and die His undeserved death, to rescue people who had no need for His sacrifice. No He did all of that so sad, sorry sinners like you and me, could be rescued. Even as He hung on the cross, He prayed, Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they’re doing. We don’t. We’re glad he knew what He was doing!

(Story above adapted from a Lutheran Hour Sermon preached on Feb. 2, 2003)

What wondrous Love to ponder. I share this with you in February, because it’s supposed to be the month to celebrate love. (St. Valentine’s Day)

Pastor David

 

         

revdavidnuss@aol.com