For while we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. For one will scarcely die for a righteous person -- though perhaps for a good person one would dare even to die -- but God shows His love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:6-8

How far would you be willing to go to save someone you didn't know?

Egyptian TV mogul, Naguib Sawiris, can answer that question: he is willing to go up to $200 million. This money he is willing to spend on the purchase of a Greek island or two. Understand, these islands aren't for him. He wants them to be used as a place of sanctuary for the refugees of Syria.

Right now he is in negotiations with Greece trying to do something he thinks will benefit all.

* It will benefit the refugees because they will be able to begin anew.

* His influx of money will benefit the cash-strapped nation of Greece.

* It will benefit Europe because they won't have to try and place all the refugees.

* It will benefit him because he wants to make a difference in the lives of these people.

Apparently, Mr. Sawiris isn't alone in his desire to help. He has had tens of thousands letters and e-mails from people who are willing to help, to contribute, to give of themselves. He even has two letters from individuals who are pledging 10 million dollars each. I pray his plan to give these refugees a home works.

How far would you go to save someone who didn't know you?

While I applaud Mr. Sawiris for his sacrifice and generosity, he still isn't in the same category as our Savior, Jesus Christ.

Mr. Sawiris is ready to give away 200 million. Still, as the third-richest man in Africa, he has a few billion dollars left over. In all probability he isn't going to have to take sandwiches to lunch or have Raman noodles for supper (unless he wants to).

In contrast to Mr. Sawiris' generous-but-able-to-afford-it gift, Jesus gave Himself. From the day of His birth until He said, "It is finished" from the cross (see John 19:33), Jesus was dedicated to saving us. Family, fortune, comforts, success and applause were never a consideration for Him. No, He was always about doing the work the Father had entrusted to Him.

And doing that meant He would suffer and die on a cross.

His sacrifice completed, His victory over death shown by His resurrection, means that all who are brought to faith can give thanks for the Savior, who gave His all and held nothing back.

THE PRAYER: Dear Lord, I give thanks for the many people who have made sacrifices for me. May my most sincere gratitude be directed to the Savior, who always gave His all. In His Name I pray it. Amen.

In Christ I remain His servant and yours,

Today's Bible Readings: Hosea 5-8    Romans 15:1-13

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