bought and paid for

We were a little later than usual leaving for church this morning. When we were almost there, J said. jokingly,"I bet somebody else has gotten our seat... bought and paid for." I said, "Jesus did that a long time ago." We both laughed. I started to think about the truth of that.....Jesus did, indeed, purchase our place in the Body of Christ and in Heaven.

".....to open their eyes, so they may turn from darkness to light...... that they may receive forgiveness from sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me." Acts 26:18
"In my Father's house are many rooms......I go there to prepare a place for you......I will come back and take you to be with me with so that you can be where I am." John 14:2-3

In addition to Christ's sacrifice, many others have paid the price for me to sit in that seat in that church and worship freely without fear of penalty, torture or death. They are the ones we are remembering this weekend. They are the ones we honor when we fly our flags. They are the ones we should thank God for, not just on Memorial Day but every day. And not only for those who died but all those, past and present, who are willing, even eager, to serve their country and protect us. So, for the men and women in blue, gray, green, and white.....May the Lord bless you and keep you. May He make His face to shine upon you and give you peace. Amen"