John 3:16 is probably the most quoted verse from the New Testament. It’s been said that the entire plan of God for his creation is summarized in that one verse. God has always wanted to spend eternity with us, so he did everything necessary to make our salvation possible. Everyone can inherit eternal life simply by choosing to receive what God has offered. Heaven is promised to each person who believes that John 3:16 is truth and receives what that verse offers.

People wait in long lines to get on a fun ride at the amusement park. I’ve often taught children that heaven is like their favorite amusement park, filled with the best rides and the best friends. Jesus already bought everyone a ticket. But each person needs to understand what that ticket cost God, then ask him to receive theirs. Our earthly lives are lived gratefully, until it’s our turn to go through the gates of heaven. Everyone in this world either has their ticket, or it's still unclaimed, needing to be picked up.

John 3:16 is the message of salvation. If your ticket is securely in your possession, offer God your praise. Find peace and joy knowing that, once you have claimed your ticket, you are guaranteed admission. Enjoy considering what it will be like to enter the gates.

Picture the wonder of children seeing all the sights and sounds of their favorite place for the first time. Then, multiply their wonder by infinity. That is just the beginning of a believer’s eternity. Christians are blessed with the assurance of our salvation. We will be blessed, and be a blessing, every time we help someone else understand the perfect truth of John 3:16. End your day filled with the joy of your salvation and pray for the opportunity to help someone else receive their ticket to eternal life.

Knowing God is the beginning of wisdom and our confidence that he has promised to save.