…he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade—kept in heaven for you. (1 Peter 1:3-4, NIV)
Golf clubs are hard to get rid of. Planned obsolescence or not, manufacturers are always updating what’s available for avid golfers to drool over and spend their money on. So when I see a bag full of clubs camped on the driveway at a yard sale, I chuckle. Whoever is buying those, I think, may as well be buying hickory sticks.
But there are a few gorgeous oldies out there. You may never play them in a real game of golf, but they are a wonder to pull out of the closet, peel off the pompon tufted headcover, and smile into the lacquer that glosses the head. Beyond that simple admiration, though, come the memories, because more than likely these were hand-me-downs, an inheritance given by one aficionado to another.
It’s good to have friends. And it’s good to remember them by the gifts they’ve given us.
Now think upon Jesus, the Savior who said of those who followed him, “I no longer call you servants… Instead, I have called you friends…” (John 15:15). He has looked on us and loved us. And to us he has provided a rich inheritance. This really is a wonder, for he also said of himself that he had no place to lay his head. Jesus was no benefactor plump with worldly wealth. What could he possibly have to give?
Other than his seamless robe—the origin of which we do not know—Jesus had only what Scripture tells us he purchased: our salvation bought on the cross in death and our eternal hope delivered when he walked out of the tomb, risen and triumphant. These he has gladly given to us.
Some inheritances, like those fine old clubs, make for a bit of nostalgic enjoyment in this life, but the inheritance kept in heaven for us shines for its everlasting nature. We will enjoy the presence of the Lord not only for a little while but for countless renewed days—just as the Trinity has always enjoyed in itself. Yes, “all this” is ours. Remarkable!
—
Jeff Hopper
November 1, 2013
Copyright 2013 Links Players International
The Links Daily Devotional appears Monday-Friday at www.linksplayers.com.