I remember a friend giving me a free puppy when I was a kid. I barely had that dog home before my dad started telling me how much my “free” dog was going to cost me in money for food, time to care for it, and attention to training. In college, I picked up a free recliner off the side of the road and brought it back to my apartment. That recliner ended up costing me several cans of Lysol, a pest company fee to rid the fleas it brought to our place, and a girlfriend who recognized my lack of taste.
Nothing in life is free…not cute puppies, comfortable old chairs, salvation, or heaven our eternity with God cost Jesus everything – his comfort, his reputation, and his life. Jesus gave himself up for us as a sacrifice to God. The gift was not free for Him. There is no way we could repay Him. We can respond to the gift by loving others wholeheartedly. For today, acknowledge Jesus’ sacrifice and follow his example of loving those around you.