These Disney Devotionals were written by Pastor Ray for his family on their vacation. You don’t have to go to Disney to get something out of them, but if you do go, invite Pastor Ray.
John 3:16-17
16 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. 17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.
This morning, my cousin Michael and I got up early, tested our internet speed and, thanks to hours of preparation, practice, internet speed, and prayer, we were one of the few ones who earned spots on Disney’s Star Wars, Rise of the Resistance. The portal opens at 7 am in the morning and is full for the day by 7:01 am.
Many people will be upset they didn’t earn a spot. Some didn’t practice like we did. Some didn’t have fast internet. Some thought the virtual queue would still be available after 7:01 am. No matter what the reason, only some people will be able to get on the ride and have a great experience. Those are the rules.
Similarly, many people get upset when they find out not everyone will spend eternity in heaven with God. Some won’t have attended church like we did. Maybe some couldn’t find Bible passages as fast as us. Others may not have prayed as much as we did. Unlike the Star Wars ride, faith in Jesus is the only way to take part in His eternal glory. Those are the rules.
There is nothing we can do to earn our way to heaven. No amount of practice, internet speed, strength, good deeds, church attendance, prayer or knowledge can get us there. But Jesus, the Son of God, died on the cross for our sins, was buried, and rose again on the third day. One day Jesus is coming again to redeem all of creation. If you believe that, Jesus has earned a spot in heaven for you. But that is not the end of the story. If you really believe in Jesus, your job is to take part in His great redemption story to and tell everyone else about what he has done in your life so that they can have the same great experience!
Dear God,
Thank you that we get to get on the Star Wars Ride. More importantly, thank you for Jesus. Help us to live into His great story of love and redemption. Help us to share the Good News and tell others about Him!