For many Christians, the word saved can lose its force over time. We know the theology: Jesus paid for our sins, we’ve been rescued from hell, and heaven is now our home. We could ace the quiz. But do we still feel the weight of that salvation?
Imagine a drowning swimmer suddenly grasping a life preserver—relief, gratitude, and awe flooding in. That’s what it means to be saved. Advent is a season to pause and consider: What would my life look like today if God had not stepped in when He did?
I was reminded of this recently on a shared ride with three strangers. Two were cheerful, but one was a relentless complainer. Weather, traffic, politics, food, family, neighbours, dogs, cats—you name it, he had a gripe. His negativity turned the air in the car – heavy and grey.
And then it struck me: That’s who I would be without Christ. Left to myself, I’d be consumed by bitterness, complaint, and darkness. But God, in His mercy, broke into my life with the good news of Jesus’ death and resurrection. He saved me—not only from eternal separation from Him, but also from the destructiveness of my own grumbling.
Now, I have life—and life abundantly. Yes, I still complain more than I should. But I see now that salvation is not just about where I’ll spend eternity. It’s about being transformed into a person of praise, even here and now.
As Advent unfolds, let’s remember: salvation is not a cliché. It is rescue, renewal, and rejoicing.
“I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” – John 10:10
Reflection Questions
- What does “being saved” mean to you today—not just in theology, but in lived experience?
- How would your life look different if God had not rescued you when He did?
- Do you feel the weight of salvation as rescue, like a drowning swimmer grasping a life preserver?
- Where do you still struggle with grumbling or complaint, and how might God be inviting you into praise?
- How can you practice gratitude and joy this Advent as a response to God’s mercy?
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