But to all who believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God. John 1:12 [NLT]

The Gospel is simple enough for a child to grasp. I know. I heard it preached in an evangelistic crusade when I was seven years old. I was glued to the speaker and transfixed. I could hardly breathe. I remember the knot in my stomach when I heard that there was a great gulf space between God and me. I also remember the ache in my heart when I realized that my sin was the reason for it. I knew that I’d do anything to end the separation between us.

For several years prior, since I was three, I had experienced the strong presence of Jesus. He was near when I sat at the piano, closed my eyes and tried to play the music I heard in my soul. So strong was His presence that I fell in love with Him.

Many benefits are shared with people when they are encouraged to accept Christ. You know them. 1.) You can have a changed life. 2.) You can have your sins forgiven and your guilt removed. 3.) You can escape the fires of hell and know, for certain, that heaven will be your home. 4.) You can be adopted by God and delivered from the captivity of the enemy.

All of these are true. But, to me, the only reason that really matters is that you can draw near to God and live life with Him. No more distance. No more longing. No more looking for the treasure. He is the treasure and, through repentance, He becomes my Treasure. My adoption papers prove new parentage. God is my Father. Jesus is my Savior and Friend. And, the Holy Spirit is my Counselor. They are active, faithful, and will take me all the way home.

You drew me to You so long ago. And the wonder of Your nearness has never left. Amen