Matthew 24:45

Our daughter recently took a train trip to Washington DC. Her stories brought back good memories of a train trip that Pat and I took a few years ago.

We already had our ticket when we arrived at the train station. The lady at the desk told us where to board. It was our first train trip and Pat, and I were excited; we were on our way to Washington DC. It was only after we started that the conductor checked our tickets. Of course, I was guarding them like a dog protecting its bone; and happily, showed them to the expressionless man who glanced and passed by.

I got to wondering what happens to the person who gets on without a ticket. My imagination took over from there. Later as I reflected on that day it made me think about our journey to Heaven. The old song says, “This train is bound for glory.” Suppose that the train is the church; how many are riding without a ticket; and are we ready when the Conductor comes to check?

I am Methodist but that surely does not make me a Christian. My salvation and faith are because of Christ and Christ alone. You can be a Methodist (or any other brand) and be lost.

“Tickets! Tickets please, may I see your tickets?” Those words will either be met with anxiety or peace. Jesus warned us of that time when many though they were on their way, but they never picked up their ticket. Pat and I were traveling on tickets that were a gift. Someone else, a dear friend, purchased them. If we are going to get to Heaven; we had better check our ticket and not our works, goodness, denomination, or anything else. Your ticket is the most expensive gift that you will ever have. It was paid for on Calvary’s Cross.

“As you roll across the trestle, spanning Jordon’s swelling tide; You’ll behold the Union Depot Into which your train will glide. There you’ll meet the superintendent, God the Father, God the Son with a hearty joyous greeting: “Weary Pilgrims Welcome Home…”