Upgrades Galore

It is for freedom that Christ has set you free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by the yoke of slavery. Galatians 5:1 NIV

I took my first flight when I was three weeks old, and I’ve logged a lot of airport time since then. Our family always boarded a plane to take summer vacations and weekend getaways. That may sound extravagant, but my dad worked for a major commercial airline. One of the perks was that employees and their immediate families enjoyed free travel. Airlines still offer this, and it’s a major bonus for those who work there.

My husband and I have done our share of traveling through the years, and much has changed since my first flight. Along the way, we’ve used various airlines, forged the wilderness of airport security lines, scheduled our ride-shares, and stayed in a variety of hotels.

Despite the many differences between airline carriers, airports, and hotels, the travel industry has one thing in common—they love offering upgrades for a fee. What do you get with these upgrades? Hotels might offer a better view, a bigger bed, or a larger room. While airlines offer more legroom, first-class, or preferred seating.

While each of these commodities intends to provide additional comfort, thus ensuring you a more pleasant flight or stay, they will also cost you a few extra bucks. They are one-time offers that serve you for a few hours or a couple of days. Many people love the extra luxury, so they’re willing to pay the price. However, if you’re anything like me, you may choose to save your money.

In Galatians 5:1, a powerful promise is made that Christ will set you free if you stand firm. Standing firm refers to maintaining one's faith despite adverse circumstances. The alternative is allegorical to being enslaved. Therefore, if we don’t allow God to set us free, we stay slaves to our sins, worries, and life’s cares.

But what if you heard an announcement offering a no-strings-attached upgrade to increase your freedom, like the promise made in Galatians 5:1? How might you respond?

Imagine feeling stuck, discouraged, and alone on life's runway when a booming voice erupts from a loudspeaker. “Ladies and Gentlemen, the Creator of the Universe has a special offer! Would you like to upgrade your life? The Almighty God is offering you freedom from darkness, anxiety, and fear. He will heal your soul and give you rest. Act now, and you’ll also receive the unshakeable love of God, the comfort of the Savior, and access to the Global Guidance System of the Holy Spirit. This offer is for everyone—no one is excluded. To receive this generous gift, sign up @thepromisesofGod.com. You won’t regret it.”

God does BIG things! He parts seas, calms storms, heals the blind, and gives us freedom. However, I’m relatively sure He wouldn’t peddle His sacred promises in this manner. After all, this offer is for something more than a penthouse suite, a first-class ticket, or more legroom.

John 10:28 ESV says, “I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand.” God will never abandon you. He gives you strength to persevere, compassion for those you love, and reminds you that miracles still happen. He teaches you how to guard your heart and guides you on the path He has prepared for you. These are just a few of God’s promises.

Unlike the temporary upgrades offered by the travel industry, God’s package offers a premium upgrade that’s miles above the Gold Medallion status. When you give your life to Jesus, you receive His mercy, grace, and love. God’s salvation is offered to everyone—all you need to do is open your heart to receive it. He forgives your sins and forgets them. He hears your prayers and remembers each one of them.

Take God up on His offer of salvation. Take a deep breath, inhale His grace, and exhale peace. Your life will be changed forever.

Points to Ponder

This passage from Mark follows Jesus after He had risen from the dead. In Mark 16:15 ESV, Jesus says, “And go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation.” The Salvation Jesus offers is for everyone.

• If you are a follower of Christ, recall when and where you accepted Him into your heart. Think of someone you love who needs the Good News of the Gospel. Pray for their salvation and ask God how you can serve them.

• If you would like to know more about following Christ, talk to a pastor, Christian friend, and/or download the YouVersion Bible App. Here you can explore the scriptures, listen to podcasts, and learn more about all the upgrades God has to offer.