More Than a Bargain by Martin Wiles

We eagerly awaited the auctioneer’s first words. And finally they came: “Okay, the first item up for bid is…What do you give. How bout a ten dollar bid? Anywhere, anywhere?” Nothing. “What about a five dollar bid? Who’ll give me five?” Still silence. Finally, “Who’ll start me at $2.50?” My wife quickly shoved our card into the air, and the auctioneer gladly pronounced “Sold!”

We love auctions and have attended enough of them to know that one person’s trash really is someone else’s treasure. Finding jewels is exciting, especially when they’re bargains we can resell for a nice profit. Clean-out auctions are our favorites because we can buy countless treasures at bargain prices.

Paul wanted every believer to know the bargain they had received through Jesus Christ. And may you have the power to understand, as all God’s people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love is (Ephesians 3:18 NLT).

God’s love is a bargain. One definition of bargain is “Something offered or acquired at a price advantageous to the buyer” While I can’t buy God’s love, it does come with advantageous freebies. The fact that he even offers it is a bargain with eternal rewards. 
God’s forgiveness is also a bargain. Rather than being a one-time deal, his forgiveness is perpetual. There’s a moment in time when he forgives, but the results continue to flow because I periodically mess up.

God’s presence with me is another bargain. Through forgiveness, my connection with him was established. But he’s not a touch-me-not deity. He sends his Spirit to indwell me continually, powerfully, and eternally.

I can’t bid on God’s love, forgiveness, or presence. There’s not enough money in my bank account…or yours. He offers it for the taking…free. Have you grabbed the bargain?

Prayer: We are amazed dear God at how much more You give than we deserve. We are forever grateful for what You freely provide in Jesus Christ.

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