Is It a Joke?

A man dies and goes to heaven. The Apostle Peter meets him at the pearly gates. Peter says, "Tell me all the good things you've done, and I'll give you the credit points for them. You need 100 points to make it into heaven. Understand?" "Okay," the man says, "I was married to the same woman for 50 years and never cheated on her, even in my heart." Peter says, "Wonderful, that's worth 3 points!"

"3 points?" the man says, "Well, I attended church all my life and supported its ministry with my tithe and service." "Terrific!" says Peter, "that's certainly worth a point." The man responds, "One point? Golly! How about this: I started a soup kitchen and worked in a shelter for homeless people." Peter than gives him another 2 points. The man cries, "TWO POINTS!! At this rate the only way I can get into heaven is by the grace of God!" Peter says, "That's right! Now you have got it!"

You may think the above story is rather humorous. Indeed, it is a basic tenet in our Christian belief expressed in a comedian tone. Ephesian 2: 8-9 tells us: For by grace you have been saved through faith; and this is not your own doing, it is the gift of God ─ not because of works, lest any man should boast. It is by grace also that Joanne and I were given the opportunity to serve you as part-time ministers because none of us could boast of our work or calibre before the Lord’s saving grace. So, brothers and sisters, let's work together in partnership to propagate the gospel for the purposes and benefit of our church. (Please feel free to call Joanne or Howard on matters related to you or our church).

(100 Points)