A little over a year ago, I received an extremely unexpected, undesired phone call. The call was from a debt collection agency, seeking to reclaim funds for an expense that had been completely unknown to me. 

The individual on the other end of the line shared details about me that contained half-truths. He mentioned an amount of money that he said I owed to a nationally known company. It made sense that someone would owe money to this company, but I knew that the debt was not my own.

I was completely shocked and overcome with bewilderment. My mind started racing as I considered all the necessary steps I would need to take to clear my name and to be relieved of the debt. The process ended up being quite involved. As I went to the lender, I learned that multiple accounts had been opened in my name, products purchased on credit, and the accounts left unpaid.

I had become the victim of identity theft. After months of talking to various companies and filing a police report, my name was finally cleared, and the debt was released. Regardless of the nature, theft feels like a violation of one’s safety. Whether it involves a vehicle or home being broken into, or as in my case, stolen identity, theft can lead to feelings of being taken advantage of and used. Christ offers us safety and peace in Him that is distinct from the type of disaster associated with theft.

I am the door; if anyone enters through Me,
he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture.
The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy;
I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.
John 10:9-10

The sense of destruction and calamity that comes with theft is in stark contrast to the peace, safety, and stability in knowing Christ. No doubt, Christ calls us to surrender our all to Him. No matter the precautions taken, none of us is completely immune to becoming the victim of theft. However, we can know that new life in Christ is promised. While it can be quite involved and take years to recover from theft, all we need to receive abundant life in Christ is to believe in Him and call on His name.

Theft is unexpected. It takes the victim by surprise and catches one off guard. In a similar way, we do not know when the return of Christ will occur. However, we do have the opportunity to choose today that we will serve Christ and invite others into eternal life in Him. Praise God for the peace, safety, and stability that comes from knowing Christ.

Love in Christ,
Adam