Perceptions #200311

"Free Sounds Too Easy"

Jerry Hodge

I have heard all my life, "there are no free lunches." Somebody has to pay the price. For the most part I would have to agree this is true. I was also brought up not to expect handouts or expect too much. It depends on me! I guess that is why our world's victim mentality is so hard to understand. You grit your teeth and try hard, when you get knocked down - you just keep getting up. One day with determination you will make it. I have to say this work ethic has helped me in many ways.

I would also have to say this self-will has led to some problems. When someone wants to buy my lunch I have to argue and act macho. If I lose the fight I have to feel guilty. I am not the only one who struggles with free. I read a church bulletin this week that advertised their publication published forty times a year and is sent free to anyone who will request a copy. "FREE upon request" was written in big letters. Then there was this additional sentence. "An annual donation of $11.87 covers our cost!" I think this begs the question. "How much does free cost?" The answer is $11.87."

This is the exact problem I have with Paul in Romans 4. Paul makes the case we are saved because of a gift. It is not a wage. A wage is worked for and earned. A gift is accepted. A gift is free! How much does free cost? In a world where there are no free lunches we must write a check for something. Here is my $11.87.

I am slowly learning that my salvation is free. We sing the lyrics, "nothing in my hand I bring, simply to thy cross I cling." I am learning to hold on tight. I am also learning the joy of giving. I mean giving with no strings attached. Today I will buy the lunch and pay the tip. This lunch for you is FREE. There are free lunches. It was even free for me. I used the money God gave me.

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