As I approach the end of blogging “The Story Behind the Story” (after MANY years), it may seem I circle back to some issues. Or linger a little long on a subject that seems elementary to you. But for some who are still seeking, the questions are real and should be considered. Like Ann, in chapter 29 of The Bridge from OneDayBow, who asked Tim these questions about the King and His Kingdom:

Why doesn’t He [the King] accept us as we are, here and now?

And why does He require the cross to OneDayBow?

Last blog I told you how I might answer, but since Tim is the main character, and the one she presented the question to, I should let him answer:

Tim said, “As our Creator, He gives us life and breath.

But we can’t live forever – one day we all face death.

The King is pure and perfect, and in His land you learn

That living in His Kingdom is a gift you can’t earn.

Ann’s first question regarded the King’s willingness to “accept”, but Tim’s answer concerns relationship to the Creator. The fact of existence – of life and breath, and all that is needed to live – shows more than mere acceptance. I can “accept” a person without having anything to do with them; but the Creator is also Provider. His love defies anything human as He cares for those He made. Sun, rain, food, are just a few examples of His providential care. The fact is, the King lavishes His creation with good things irrespective of merit. But that doesn’t mean that He accepts sin, which really is rejection of His will. And with sin death entered the world, which all will face.

As far as Ann’s second question; she doesn’t see the necessity of anything beyond HereAndNow. Tim already pointed her to the reality of death, but he also points out something vitally important to know. Focusing solely on what is seen and experienced, a person is not going to understand their need beyond the here and now. Tim is telling Ann to consider that there truly is a King Who is absolutely pure and perfect, but is willing to make humans acceptable for His Kingdom through the merit of His Son. But it is a gift that must be believed to be received. It starts with realizing that we are not here forever.

It may seem like double-speak to say that you have to believe before you can see, but it’s true. Faith is not a cheap trick, but reconnects us to the God Who made us. He blesses us in this lifetime, even when we aren’t aware of it. But that doesn’t automatically entitle us to live in His Heaven, any more than my acceptance of another human being requires me to give them a room in my home. When we personally receive Jesus as our Savior, Who took the penalty for our sin on Himself, He gives us life by His Spirit – Eternal Life! Far more than a place to live, it is life in Him and with Him.

This is eternal life: that they may know You, the only true God, and the One You have sent—Jesus Christ. (John 17:3 – HCSB)