These words have become familiar phrases in our speech but what do they mean?  Pay back may be as simple as returning a favor or paying a debt, or as sinister as “getting even” with someone who has hurt us or caused us distress.  Pay back can be a good thing or a not so good thing.

Pay it forward usually has a good ring to it.  It might be a kindness done with no expectation of reward.  A neighbor told me of their Christmas dinner at a local restaurant where they had a conversation with a couple at the next table.  When they finished dinner and were ready to pay, they were told the couple at the next table had already paid their bill.  What a lovely surprise!

Years ago, I was overwhelmed by some especially helpful things my mother did for us.  I told her I had no idea how I could repay her kindness.  She said, “Just pass it on.”  This is what is means to pay it forward.

During this Lenten season we turn our thoughts to Jesus and what He has done for us.  He took the “pay back” we deserved (the punishment for our sins) to the cross and paid the price with his own life.  But there is more.  He rose again on that first Easter Sunday and paid it forward for us by giving us the blessed assurance of eternity in heaven with God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, and all the saints (believers) who are waiting for us there. Read Isaiah 53:4-6 and John 11:25-27, and remember: God loves YOU unconditionally.

Helen