The call to salvation is so simple that it does not seem true. ‘Whosoever will come,’ the Bible says. There is no caveat or condition. It is a human failing to think that we have to earn our way to heaven. But as the hymn-writer says, ‘Were the whole world of nature mine, that is an offering far too small.’ (Isaac Watts) What can we possibly give to Him who owns everything and has created everything. All God wants is our hearts and He will fill us with the Holy Spirit.
The early Jews wanted to add circumcision to the mix, but that was never a requirement of salvation. Down through the ages the church has sometimes ‘muddied the waters.’ Pilgrimages, fasting, special services or giving of alms are all good but they are trappings and not the essence of our faith.
We can never earn our way to heaven, we can only accept the precious gift. ‘Nothing in my hand I bring, only to the cross I cling.(Augustus Toplady) Does our own church cling to tradition and not substance? Are we explaining the gospel faithfully to seekers? Forget our preferences and prejudices. Yes, it is that simple.