It is an often told story, but it highlights a great truth. There was an extremely wealthy man who possessed vast treasures of art. The man had one son who was an ordinary boy and who passed away in late adolescence. Having loved the lad deeply, the sorrowing father died of a broken heart only a few weeks later.
The father’s will provided that everything would be sold by auction and, strangely, the father’s will stipulated that an oil painting of his son was to be the first item offered by the auctioneer.
Large crowds came to bid on the widely-reputed collection of art. In keeping with the proviso of the will, the boy’s portrait was first held up for bids. No one cared about the deceased boy. Not until several moments had passed did an old servant, who had always loved the boy, place what others considered a small bid.
The picture was at once sold to the old servant, there being no further bids registered.
Then the dramatic moment came; the sale was stopped, as the will had further provided that anyone who loved the son enough to buy his portrait should receive everything in the father’s house.
In Ephesians 6:24 we read that it is God’s purpose that those who love His Son will receive all the blessings of divine favour: “Grace be with all those who love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity. Amen.”
Meditate upon this blessing as we gather to worship the God today: What does it mean to love Christ? Why should we love Christ? How is it that we do love Christ? If we love Christ, why do we need grace? Why can I be sure that I will receive grace from the Lord today and every day? How should I view other believers in the light of this?
The pray with the Psalmist, “Look upon me and be merciful to me, as Your custom is to those who love Your name.” (Psalm 119:132)