Before I Goనమూనా

In elementary school, my teacher always gave out "Homework Free" coupons as a reward. With one of these, we could be exempt from any homework assignment of our choice. It was the best feeling when you spent that coupon, and everyone else had to do the homework except for you. Now, imagine if someone just gave you theirs. No questions asked, and you did nothing to deserve it. This feeling gives us a small glimpse into what it feels like to accept what Jesus did for us. Everyone has had a time where they messed up, made a selfish decision, hurt another person, or fell short– this is called sin. Sin is what separates humans from God. But guess what? We don't have to live with the weight of that sin anymore. We can live in freedom. We can live without shame. And most of all, we get to have a relationship with God.

This is because of one thing. Jesus. Even though we deserve to die separated from God, Jesus sacrificing his perfect life for our flawed lives allows us to be with God. Jesus paid the high cost and died for us, where He went through extraordinary amounts of physical, emotional, and spiritual pain for us. He was selfless and endured it all for us so that we could be close to God. There is no greater love than what Jesus did on the cross. Jesus wants us to live a whole and complete life. So today, take a moment to reflect on all that Jesus has done for you and what that means for your life.

Written by Samantha, 15, from Blaine, Minnesota, USA