Junk Mail & Free   

I have to get to the point of the absolute and unquestionable relationship that takes everything exactly as it comes from Him. God never guides us at some time in the future, but always here and now. Realize that the Lord is here now, and the freedom you receive is immediate. Oswald Chambers

My husband received a letter in the mail yesterday.  I’ll admit it caught my eye and I am not sure why they didn’t send me one too.  I mean, how do people get your mailing information anyway.  This one was kind of weird. 

The front of the envelope read “Free Pre-Paid Cremation DETAILS INSIDE”.  That’s an oxymoron.  I mean how do you get something for free when it is pre-paid?  Then it went on to explain how much this option made sense.

·       “It allows families to conduct personal services at their own convenience” What does this mean?  They didn’t give any further explanation so I am assuming they mean you can carry your loved one with you until you decide where to put them. 

·       “It has less impact on the environment.”  So does this mean the crematory is concerned about the environmental impact of burying a loved one?

·       “You can lock in today’s price.” As opposed to tomorrow’s price, and how long does today’s price last.  I thought they said this was “Free”

·       “You provide your family from falling victim to pressure to overspend (also known as “up-selling”) at a time when they are emotionally vulnerable.” Are they serious?  Last time I checked, you will need a loan to pay for the service to be buried.

·       And last but not least, “making these arrangements may qualify as an exempt asset when filing for Medicaid assistance.”  How can this be an asset when I’m dead?

Here is the interesting part.  In fine print at the bottom it reads, “Please accept our apologies if this letter has reached you at a time of serious illness or death in your family.” 

The definition of free is at no charge.  In today’s world free really means “I am trying to lure you into buying something but to get your attention I am going to use the word Free.”

The sad reality is that we are bombarded by advertising every day and it is not always something that is for our own good.  This made me think of God and when he says free he really does mean free.   If you abide in my Word the truth shall make you free. 

Prayer for the Day: Heavenly Father, I want to be free and live in freedom with You.  You offer me freedom if I abide in You and live in truth.  That is not much to ask for the future you offer.  Thank You for the sacrifice it cost You to set me free. 

Scripture:  Then Jesus said to those Jews who believed Him, “If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed.  And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”  They answered Him, “We are Abraham’s descendants, and have never been in bondage to anyone. How can You say, ‘You will be made free’?” Jesus answered them, “Most assuredly, I say to you, whoever commits sin is a slave of sin.  And a slave does not abide in the house forever, but a son abides forever. Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.  John 8:31-36