THE PIT!

By Rev. Dave Pagni

The story is told of a man who fell into a deep pit while walking in a jungle. He soon realized he was not alone. Just a few feet away was a deadly cobra! Then he heard footsteps. Excitedly, he called out for help and about the snake ready to strike!

The man at the top replied, "My name is Buddha. If you have lived a good life, you have reached the spiritual state of "Nirvana." Therefore, no pain or harm will come to you. Peace be with you," and he left!

The trapped man was shocked! Suddenly, he heard someone else approaching. He cried out for help and about the cobra! The man at the top replied, "My name is Muhammad, and I believe this incident is an opportunity for you to die for the glory of Allah. Soon you will be with seven virgins in heaven! Peace be with you," and he left.

The man realized there was no hope to escape. But then he heard more footsteps. He desperately shouted out, explaining his situation. Incredulously, the man at the top leaped into the pit...

"Here, stand on my shoulders and pull yourself out," he said. "But what about you, the cobra will kill you!" "Don't worry about me," the man replied.

The man scrambled out of the pit and watched amazed as his rescuer grabbed the snake and killed it, despite being bitten several times! The rescued man cried out, "Why did you do this for me? Now you will die!" The man in the pit simply said,

"Because I love you!"

"What is your name," the saved man called out.

The man in the pit replied, "Jesus!"

A fictional story, yes. But one that illustrates the differences between religious leaders, their religions, and Jesus.

You may be in a "pit" of hopelessness and discouragement. No religion can get you out.

But Jesus can!

He LOVES YOU and proved it on the cross. His help and love are just a prayer away!

Dear Lord Jesus, I believe you died on the cross for me and rose again. I ask that you would come into my life, forgive my mistakes and sins, and be my Lord and Savior. Thank you, Lord, for loving me and for rescuing me...Amen!

All Rights Reserved - Harvest Ministries - 2006