“Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” Hebrews 4:15-16 

I have a friend whose husband trains Elite Security Dogs (ESD). Unlike guard dogs, elite protection dogs are trained to handle complex scenarios, including carjackings, armed attackers, and multiple threats. Their mere presence and confident demeanor often prevent incidents from happening. Elite security dogs protect celebrities and high-profile individuals by serving as both loyal companions and professional security guards. 

She recently shared with me that she and her husband flew to Switzerland to one of their clients because he was having surgery and needed her husband (the trainer) to care for the ESD dog for 2 weeks. They arrived at the exclusive hotel and, while checking in, the concierge handed my friend a packet containing 2 free drink coupons. My friend giggled and was thrilled. Two free drinks! Her husband leaned over as inconspicuously as possible, pointed to the golden surroundings and whispered, “Honey, my employer is comping everything.  It is ALL being paid for.” 

She shyly nodded, taking in the grandeur of the surroundings, acknowledging how blessed they were to have a luxury, complimentary work-vacation. 

Much like my friend, we are disoriented by Christ’s complimentary grace. When we stand before the cross, there is no receipt, no obligation. Christ has covered the cost—completely. The cross–the place of horrible death he endured for victory over sin, death and evil for us. 

Do we stand at the cross with the expectation that it will cost something, just like the third drink? The Cross is not a partial payment. It is not a down payment. It is not an installment plan. It is full satisfaction, not only for our sins, but for the whole world. 

My friend humbly accepted the billionaire client’s gift with gratitude and awe after a nudge. With God’s nudge, approach the cross this season, and accept the drink; it is undeserved and gives power for living. Cheers. 

Prayer

O Lord and Ruler of the hosts of heaven, I will praise you without ceasing all the days of my life. For all the power of heaven sing your praises, and yours is the glory to ages of ages. Amen (from the Prayer of Manasseh)