Last Saturday we went to an evening sponsored by the Baozhong Township Office.  It was a family event attended by a few thousand residents.  Nine finalists, one from each of the villages, competed in the town’s singing competition.  There was a fireworks display as the municipal politicians arrived with the contestants. We were able to hear the singing and see the results of the final judging.  But the activity that occupied most of the time that evening was the draw for prizes that had been contributed by different companies.  There was an abundance of prizes (tablet computers, bicycles, fancy rice cookers, electric fans, a refrigerator, a television, etc.).  Everyone waited and listened, hoping to hear that the number drawn was the one they had received when they entered the plaza.  At the end of the evening, there was a long line of people, waiting to exchange a coupon for a free bottle of soy sauce.

Many people attended the event with the hope of receiving something for free.  As we saw their excitement and anticipation, we also found ourselves thinking about a gift that they are not yet waiting in line to receive.  It is the gift of eternal life being offered by Jesus.  It is a free gift in that it cannot be purchased or earned, and yet there is a cost. It cost Jesus his life in order to provide it.  We must be willing to die to self in order to receive it.

Please continue to pray with us for the proclamation of the gospel message and for people to respond and receive the gift of eternal life.