Read: Colossians 1:9-14

When Jack came into the living room, his dad was watching the news. He heard the end of a report about a man trying to collect a large inheritance. “If that man’s parents died, why can’t he get the money that was left?” asked Jack after Dad turned off the TV.

“He ran away from home when he was sixteen years old,” Dad explained. “That was thirty years ago, and he never contacted his family again. They searched and searched for him and found out he’d moved to another state. They wanted to have a relationship with him again and made repeated efforts throughout the years to contact him—including several visits to the city where he lived. But he wouldn’t even speak with them.”

Jack frowned. “But he’s back now, so won’t he get at least some of the money?”

“Apparently not. His parents gave up trying to get a response from him and didn’t include him in their wills.”

“But now, after they’ve both died, he finally shows up and thinks he should have the inheritance?” asked Jack.

“Yes, but now it’s too late,” replied Dad. “He contested the will, but the courts upheld it. They said he’s not entitled to any of the money.”

“Wow!” said Jack. “I bet he’s sorry he didn’t make up with his parents when he had the chance.”

Dad nodded. “He not only lost the inheritance—he missed out on having a relationship with his parents too. He learned a hard lesson—and, sadly, a very common one.”

“You mean there are lots of people who leave home and refuse to have a relationship with their parents?” asked Jack in surprise.

“That happens often enough,” said Dad. “But I was thinking of the inheritance God offers to everyone through Jesus Christ. Because of our sin, we’re cut off from God, so He sent Jesus to restore our relationship with Him. But if we refuse His offer of reconciliation, then we miss out on having a relationship with God. When life ends, we’re going to want the inheritance—eternal life—given to those who are part of God’s family, but it’s going to be too late. That’s why it’s important to accept God’s offer to have a relationship with Him now, while we still can.”

–Heather M. Tekavec

How about you?

Today's Key Verse:

Today's Key Thought: