Hi, all! Just a thought to help start your weekend.

A couple of years ago, I drove our rented car through some uninviting neighborhoods, taking each turn just as our navigation system instructed. We turned left, then right, then again and again, seemingly getting more lost with each turn. Eventually we could see that famous New York City skyline in the distance. Another straight stretch of road, another turn or two, and we pulled into the parking lot of the Jersey City, New Jersey port stop for the Statue of Liberty and New York Harbor tours.

I parked the car, and my wife and I walked the long stretch of sidewalks up to an impressive old building, entering through the massive doors of what was at one time a building bustling with travelers the world over. We stood in line and purchased the tickets you see here. We were headed to Liberty Island.

Of course, we stood in another long line awaiting our turn on one of the intermittent ferry boats into which over 300 of us crowded for the short harbor ride. The views were amazing, the history was spine-tingling and hair-raising, and the weather couldn’t have been better. These two tickets, as our souvenirs, are our reminder of a great trip that particular day.

My church family has heard me say many times that while I’m not necessarily eager to board the bus today, I have my ticket! I’m a blood-bought born-again Bible-believing God-fearing, child of the King.

What makes my ticket to leave this old world different from that Liberty Island ticket? Well, you see, it’s very simple. I bought the Liberty Island ticket. I used my own funds from my own resources to make that purchase. The other ticket I hold was given to me free of charge by the One Who paid the ultimate price for it! 

Especially at this Easter season, focus on all that our Lord and Savior went through on our behalf! Nothing I have is mine because I earned it. He offered it to me freely because I simply put my faith and trust in Him. He bought my ticket! AND, He has already paid for your ticket as well.

The question is this — Are you planning to make the trip? If so, you must accept that ticket. There’s no way to know when the “bus” or “ferry” will arrive to take us Home. But as long as we have our ticket, we are ready for the trip! And, oh, what a trip that will be!

Just a thought. ’Til later.

Brad Campbell can be reached at mastah.pastah@yahoo.com.