Perishable

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)

            One of the presents we gave our oldest son this Christmas is a box containing a variety of snack-sized sausages, cheeses, mixed nuts, and chocolates. The day it was delivered, I noticed the large label affixed to the box; “Perishable.” Immediately, I wrapped the box and put it in the fridge to await Christmas morning.

            In his Gospel, John relates a visit between Jesus and Nicodemus. During their conversation, Jesus reveals to Nicodemus that every man is born into this world perishable. Because of sin, we are separated from God and condemned to both physical death and spiritual death. But because of God’s great love, He did not leave us to wallow in sin. He sent His one and only Son, Jesus, to save us. Knowing the price that needed to be paid in order to reconcile man with God, Jesus willing came and willingly paid that price.

            Through Jesus, we can find eternal life. When He died on the cross, He removed that perishable state for all those who receive Him as Lord and Savior. Through His death, whoever (that means you and me) believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. Although mortal physically, our souls ascend to live in His presence for eternity.

Perishable becomes imperishable. Mortal changes into immortal. Ephemeral transforms into eternal. There is no greater gift than this.