Galatians 2:21 – I do not set aside the grace of God, for if righteousness could be gained through the law, Christ died for nothing!

A man dies and goes to heaven. Of course, St. Peter meets him at the pearly gates.

St. Peter says, "Here's how it works. You need 100 points to make it into heaven. You tell me all the good things you've done, and I give you a certain number of points for each item, depending on how good it was. When you reach 100 points, you get in."

"Okay," the man says, "I was married to the same woman for fifty years and never cheated on her, even in my heart."

"That's wonderful," says St. Peter, "that's worth three points!"

"Three points?" he says. "Well, I attended church all my life and supported its ministry with my tithe and service."

"Terrific!" says St. Peter, "that's certainly worth a point."

"One point? Goodness! How about this: I started a soup kitchen in my city and worked in a shelter for homeless veterans."

"Fantastic, that's good for two more points," he says.

"Two points!!" the man cries, "At this rate the only way I get into heaven is by the grace of God!"

"That's worth 100 points… come on in!"

Author unknown

Ephesians 2:8 – For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith — and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God — not by works, so that no one can boast.

Prayer: Thank you, Lord, that you have ordained that no works are good enough to merit eternal life, and that all who enter heaven must cast themselves on your mercy. Today, may we gain more understanding of the riches of your grace in Jesus Christ. Amen.

Forward this devotional     Share on Facebook

About the author: