The Exchange That Changes Everything

"For God loved the world in this way: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life." – John 3:16
 
We have looked at all kinds of exchanges lately. We have talked about trading comfort for the cross, selfishness for the Savior, and judgment for joy. But none of those matter without the one exchange that makes them all possible. The exchange that happened on a hill outside of Jerusalem, on a day the world would never forget.
 
That moment on Calvary was not symbolic. It was not poetic. It was real. Flesh and blood were given for the sins of mankind. The perfect Son of God was put to death so that sinners like you and me could live. That was not just a story. That was a rescue. A transaction unlike anything we have ever known. God gave everything. He gave His Son.
 
But what often gets overlooked is what we bring into that exchange. We come with nothing to offer. We are the ones with the debt. We are the ones lost in the dark. We come carrying sin, guilt, fear, shame, and brokenness. And God looks at all of it, then says, I will take it. All of it. Then in return, He gives us life, freedom, righteousness, and peace.
 
There is no better trade you will ever make. You cannot earn it. You cannot match His gift. All you can do is receive it. And maybe that is the hardest part. Because everything in us wants to earn it or at least bring something to the table. But this is one table where the meal has already been paid for. The seat is already set. You just have to sit down.
 
If you have never made that exchange, today is your day. If you already have, maybe it is time to remember what was given for you. Don’t trade that castle of grace for a wall built with human pride or religious effort. Christ is your castle. He is the covering you need. And the cross is the only bridge to get there.