The story is told of a British traveler in Africa in the early 1800’s. He came upon the scene of a slave-owner who was furious at his slave. In fury, the master grabbed a spear and threw it at the slave, intending to kill him. The British man, yelled, “No!” and put out his arm to block the spear. The spear pierced his arm badly.
As the blood spurted out, he demanded the release of the slave to his care, saying he had bought him with his blood. The former master grudgingly agreed. As he walked away, the slave threw himself at the feet of his deliverer, saying, “The blood-bought one is now the slave of the man of pity. He will serve him faithfully.” Although the British man gave the slave his freedom, in deep gratitude, the former slave chose to remain with him, delighting to wait on him for years to come (story from H.A. Ironside). He wouldn’t go away.
Having your life saved by someone is something you never get over. But having your soul saved by Christ for eternity is something infinitely greater. Notice these rich verses… “Who GAVE HIMSELF for our sins, that He might rescue us from this present evil world” (Galatians 1:4) … “The life which I now live in this body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me, and GAVE HIMSELF for me” (Galatians 2:20) … “Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ loved the Church, and GAVE HIMSELF for it” (Ephesians 5:25) … “Jesus, GAVE HIMSELF a ransom for all” (1 Timothy 2:6) … “Who GAVE HIMSELF for us, that He might redeem us from all lawlessness, and purify for Himself a unique (priceless possession) people, zealous of good works (like Him)” – (Titus 2:14).
Jesus' pity was no accident. Our rescue was planned before the foundation of the world. What else can we do but give our lives back to Him wholeheartedly and serve Him faithfully while holding the promise of His return dear to our hearts. Truly, we love Him because He first loved us.
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