The bowling balls were selected, and the lanes were ready. But would we be on the mark? 

We had our bowling shoes on and the scorecard set up. My grandson picked up his ball and rolled it down the lane, but it rode the gutter all the way down and missed the mark. None of us are good bowlers, but we enjoy laughing with each other. At times, some of the pins fall, and occasionally, one of us scores a strike. Still, we are happy just hanging out together–two teenagers and two Grammys enjoying the day.

For all have sinned and fall short of the Glory of God.

~Romans 3:23 NIV

According to God’s Word, we have all missed the mark. In Romans, Paul also writes, “As it is written there is none righteous, not even one” (Romans 10:13 NIV).

By accepting the gift offered to us, we can have a personal relationship with God through Jesus Christ. The gift of salvation is available to everyone who will receive it. Our part is simple–accept the gift. Paul continues, “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 6:23 NIV).

For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.

~John 3:16 NIV

God is a good and gracious Father who waits for us to turn to Him and receive this precious gift. Therefore, no one who calls upon the name of Jesus is turned away. 

That if you confess with your mouth, Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved.

~Romans 10:9-10 NIV

Again, Paul says, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved”(Romans 10:13 NIV).

I enjoy spending time with my grandsons. Even more, I cherish my walk with the Lord, knowing that when I miss the mark and sin, I can confess my sin because “He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9 NIV).

Jesus Christ died on Calvary’s cross and paid sin’s penalty for us. Then, He rose from the dead–victorious over death, hell, and the grave. He is coming again to take us to live in heaven with Him. We need only accept the gift of salvation God offers us, and we are His. Although God made the way through His Son, we must make the step to accept God’s gift.

Accepting God’s gift of salvation was the best decision I have ever made. It will be yours too.

Let Christ come into your heart today.

Father God, thank You that You love me and desire that I spend eternity with You. Thank You for making the way simple. I make the decision this moment to accept Your gift of salvation that You provided through Your Son’s sacrificial love. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Genre: Non-fiction

Copyright 2021: On the Mark: Glenda Shouse: All Rights Reserved