NO GROUP DISCOUNTS                               by Carl McMurray

 

Are you a member of Triple A or AARP?” The young lady behind the hotel desk asked. “No,” I replied. “Are you eligible for a senior discount?” She asked. “Nope,” I replied again. Then I added, “Not unless 51 has begun qualifying.” She said, “It does today!” “Really,” I said. “Why is that?” “Because I’m on the desk today and these rates are too high.” She answered.

 

How cool is that? Given discounts just because you’re in a group and not by yourself. It’s such a part of our culture now that I wonder if some have begun think­ing that heavens’ “check-in” desk will be like that. Do we really believe that we can live as we please all week, hang around church services for a few hours a week, flash our baptismal certificate at the desk and stroll on in to our reservation? No need to volunteer, no need to get involved, no need to visit, no need to study or prepare, just show up and you’re part of the group... go on into heaven.

 

Time to wake up. Although one must certainly be part of the Lord’s body, no­body is getting into heaven as a “group member.” Romans 14:12 says, So then, each one of us will give an account of himself to God. 2 Corinthians 5:10 reads, For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may be recom­pensed for his deeds in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad.. No group discounts.