UNPACK this…For Golf FansSample

"Can I See Your Badge?"

The Masters is a tradition unlike any other. The course, the history, and the memories are legendary. One of the greatest golfers to ever walk the course is six-time Masters Champion, Jack Nicklaus. The 76-year-old is still involved with the tournament’s festivities, and upon his 2016 arrival to Augusta National Golf Course, he was videotaped from inside his car. This viral video shows his drive up Magnolia Lane as he stops at each security checkpoint.

The crazy part of the video is how Jack isn’t easily recognized by multiple security guards. One of the greatest golfers of all time, with six green jackets, is asked to show his badge. You'd think everyone at Augusta should know him because of his accomplishments.

This video brings to mind Jesus’ powerful words in Matthew 7:21-23 (ESV): “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?’ And then will I declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.’”

These verses are a reminder that we can't earn our way into heaven by just doing the "right things" in life. Instead, we must put our faith and hope in Jesus for our salvation because we can never do enough good works. Not even religious activities can save us.

Jesus' work on the cross, and our belief and trust in Him, are what allow us entry into eternity. When we truly receive God's grace and invite Jesus into our hearts, our lives start to change with our actions reflecting that we know Him.

Thankfully when we get face to face with Jesus in heaven, we can confidently know He will recognize us because of His accomplishment (on the cross)...not ours. I’m Bryce Johnson and you can unpack that!