In 1914, before the use of insulin injections, Corrie ten Boom's Aunt Jans was diagnosed with diabetes. She knew that she did not have long to live. Yet, within a few days after learning this, she went right back to working in God-honoring causes. Several months later, a blood test indicated that the end was near.

The family was gathered in Aunt Jans' room when Corrie's father gently broke the news to her. Then he added, "Jans, some must go to their Father empty-handed, but you will run to Him with hands full."

Jans' response touched them all. She said that her good deeds were as "little tricks and trinkets." Then she prayed, "Dear Jesus, I thank You that we must come with empty hands. I thank You that You have done all—all—on the cross, and that all we need in life or death is to be sure of this."

Jesus reminded us that even after we've served Him faithfully we have merely done our duty (Luke 17:10). Yet, on another occasion He indicated that one day He would honor us for our faithfulness (12:37). How can this be? Because all that we have, even the ability to serve the Lord, comes to us as a gracious gift from Him.

Remember, from beginning to end, all is of grace.  —HVL  — Herbert Vander Lugt