A man arrives at the Pearly Gates and Saint Peter welcomes him. Peter explains, “Let me tell you how this works. It takes a 100 points for you to get in. You give me an accounting of your life, and I’ll tell you how many points you get.  The man begins by saying, “I was married to the same woman for 57 years and was completely faithful to her. I was a good husband, father and provider for my family.”  Peter replied, “Excellent, that will get you two points!”  The man was a little surprised at the small value placed on that, but he continued: “I was a faithful member of my church my entire life. I always tithed on all my income and was active in service through my congregation and church body.”  Peter again said, “Very good. That gets you one point.”  The man was more concerned now, but he went on with his accounting. “I volunteered at the local homeless shelter every week. I helped at least once a month at the food pantry to distribute items. I volunteered with Habitat for Humanity to help build homes. And I served on the board of Family Promise to provide a helping hand to families in situational homelessness.”  Peter said, “That is wonderful. One more point.”  The man was flustered and replied, “One point? At this rate the only way I’ll ever get into heaven is by the grace of God!”  Peter smiled broadly and said, “Come on in.”

I like that story because it reminds me of an important truth. The good deeds I do are not the cause of my salvation, but a response to it. My forgiveness and life, both here and in eternity, were earned by what Jesus did.

2 Corinthians 12:9 But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.

I don’t have it in me to accomplish what needs to be done for my salvation. Jesus took my place, paid my penalty, and defeated death and the devil for me.

Ephesians 2:8–9 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast.

When I stand at the pearly gates, it will not be a list of my deeds and what I have done that earns my forgiveness and entry. All I have to say is “I believe Jesus already paid my entry fee.” And then you will be with Him.