The Passengers Were Few

LightGrams
April 4, 2019
Volume 23, Number 13

If you have flown commercially in the last 10 years or so, you’ll be just a little envious of Skirmantas Strimaitis. This man from Lithuania was headed to northern Italy and bought a ticket on an airline. The fare was a bit more expensive than usual, as it was a one-way ticket. But, boy, did it come with perks!

The Boeing 737-800 plane he boarded can carry up to 188 people. On this flight he was the only passenger aboard! The normal flight crew of 2 pilots and 5 attendants were there. Though the Associated Press story didn’t say so, we’re guessing Skirmatis received more than the usual amount of attention on this flight, and likely took his seat in first-class.

This story reminds me of a wonderful opportunity now open: A trip to eternal life in heaven! To make the deal even sweeter, it’s open to anyone, and you don’t have to be rich, highly educated, etc. to book this trip.

We’re referring, of course, to Jesus and His offer of salvation to anyone. He commanded His apostles 2,000 years ago to publicize this offer: “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned” (Mark 16:15,16). Did you catch the fact that Jesus’ invitation extends to “all the world”?

Now brace yourself for the unbelievable part: There will be few who actually make this journey to heaven. Here are words Jesus spoke: “Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it” (Matthew 7:13,14).

Later in His ministry Jesus told a parable about a king who planned a marriage feast for his son. Invitations were sent out for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. When the day arrived, the invited guests “made light of it and went their ways” (Matthew 22:5). They chose everyday activities over the royal banquet prepared by their king!

What does that story, based on ancient customs, have to do with us? Listen to Jesus’ application: “For many are called, but few are chosen” (Matthew 22:14). The lucky ones who will be chosen are those who accept the terms of the Lord’s invitation, and respond to Him with gratitude and submission.

Did the Lithuanian passenger know he would be alone on that flight, or did he just get lucky? Would others have bought tickets if they had known? Here, however, is the question for you and me: Knowing what the Lord has planned, will we book passage?

Come to the light God offers! Study His word, the Bible. Worship Him in spirit and truth (John 4:24). Get in touch with us if you’d like to discuss these ideas further.

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Copyright, 2019, Timothy D. Hall. All scripture quotations, unless otherwise noted, are from the New King James Version (Copyright, 1990, Thomas Nelson, Inc.).

“LightGrams” is produced by the Central Church of Christ, 2722 Oakland Avenue, Johnson City, Tennessee, 37601, and is written by Tim Hall, minister. It is sent free of charge every Thursday to all who request it. To subscribe or to receive more information, write to “Tim@GraceMine.org” (our E-mail address), to the U.S. mail address above, or call (423) 282-1571.

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