No Elimination!

Last week I once again attended the US Open Tennis Championships in Flushing Meadows, Queens, NY with my brother Chris. It was a great day filled with lots and lots of tennis as we went from one match to another; we watched about nine hours’ worth that day! And being that it was the third day of the tournament (Wednesday), all of the singles matches we watched were second round matches. That means by that point in the tournament, half of the players who began the tournament on Monday had already been eliminated. 

In case you don’t know how a tournament like this works, a “major” (as this level of tournament is called) begins with 128 singles players—i.e., 128 men and 128 women. As each round is played, half of the players are eliminated. Thus, in six rounds of play the 128 who began on day one have been whittled down to the two who will play in the finals for the championship trophy (and lots of cash!). By the seventh round—i.e., the finals—126 players have been eliminated. 

I think we all know what is like to be eliminated from something. It’s never a great feeling. You may have been part of a pool of candidates for a job, but for one reason or another you were eliminated at some point from consideration. You may have been trying out for a team for which there were a limited number of spots available, and you received the news you didn’t make the team. Or, you may have been rejected by the college you had hoped to attend, as the school whittled down their acceptance list from the host of applicants. There are a lot more examples, but the point is simply this: throughout life we all experience elimination. And, elimination never feels good!

I know that sounds a bit depressing. But here’s the good news: God never eliminates anyone who seeks to be part of his kingdom. Unlike so many things in this life, the Kingdom of God has an unlimited number of spots available. Heaven has room for anyone and everyone who desires entrance. That’s why the Bible uses the words, “anyone,” “everyone” and “whoever” so many times. It tells us that “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” (Acts 2:21) and “Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life.” (John 3:36)  Jesus said, “Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (John 8:12) In the book of Revelation he says, “Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and will dine with him, and he with Me.” (Revelation 3:20) 

In other words, all who truly seek to know God and who place their faith in his Son, Jesus, are accepted and welcomed. Anyone and everyone, no matter their background, resume, status, or talent is invited into the Kingdom of God. That includes you and me! 

I’m thankful today that God has a place for each of us within his kingdom—that in the Kingdom of God, there is no elimination! 

Have a great day! 

- Pastor Tim Harris