But if it is by grace, it is no longer on the basis of works; otherwise grace would no longer be grace. (Romans 11:6)
In golf, we all know that a “gimme” is a term that refers to a putt that is so close to the hole that it’s typically given to the player without them having to putt it.
A “gimme” speeds up the game, removes unnecessary frustration, and builds camaraderie. I love giving a ‘gimme’ and receiving one! But it also offers a beautiful metaphor for God’s grace and our walk of faith.
When we look at the “gimme” in golf, we see something that resembles the gift of salvation offered to us through Jesus Christ. In the same way that a gimme is offered to a golfer who doesn’t need to struggle to make a putt, God offers us grace freely and without hesitation. We don’t have to earn our way to salvation, nor do we need to strive for perfection to obtain it.
In golf, there are often moments when a golfer faces a difficult shot, requiring precision, skill, and patience. But when it comes to the hole, sometimes the ball is so close that the putt is almost guaranteed.
Similarly, we face moments in life when it feels like we’re on the edge of a breakthrough, a moment of victory, but we have nothing left to give. It’s during those times when God steps in, offering us the “gimme” of His grace.
We might be exhausted, feeling like we’ve missed the mark too many times, but He offers forgiveness and the gift of His presence as if to say, “I’ve got this for you; I’ll finish the putt.”
This concept of grace and rest is echoed throughout Scripture. Ephesians 2:8-9 reminds us, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works so that no one can boast.”
Just as a gimme is a gift to the player, God’s salvation is a gift to us. We don’t have to prove ourselves to God or hit a perfect shot to gain His love and forgiveness. All we need is faith in Jesus Christ, who paid the price for our sins, ensuring that the hole of separation from God is closed.
Furthermore, in Matthew 11:28-30, Jesus invites us to experience rest in Him: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”
Much like the golfer who gets to avoid the pressure of an extra putt, Jesus offers us rest. We can stop striving to earn His favor and simply receive the gimme He extends to us. The hole, which once seemed far out of reach, is now attainable because of His grace.
Just as the golfer can enjoy a sigh of relief with a ‘gimme,’ we too are invited to embrace the grace God offers, trusting that He will always finish what He starts in us (Phil. 1:6).
Our journey in faith is marked by moments when God’s mercy takes away the need for striving. Let us approach the hole of life with gratitude, knowing that God’s grace covers our weaknesses and shortcomings. He is the ultimate “gimme” in our walk with Him.
Prayer: Lord, we thank you for grace and that you always finish what you start in us.