When I got married I changed my name. Not just my last name. I changed the whole thing. I got rid of my first name, moved my middle name to the top spot, and slid my last name to the middle. Then I added my husband’s last name. It was a good name, and I was happy with it.

Unfortunately, because of the complete name change, I was added to some kind of watch list for airport security. My passport brought up a red flag at every TSA checkpoint each time I flew anywhere. I would be shuffled off to the side and wanded while my suitcase was thoroughly searched. Meanwhile, my husband breezed through without a glance.

Eventually, my name was removed from whatever list it had been on, and I was able to pass through airport security without the extra hassle. The first time I walked through unimpeded felt like some kind of miracle, as if I were getting away with something. Don’t you have to search my bags or check my pockets or ask me questions about my identity?

When Jesus returns everyone will have to go through a security checkpoint. Some call it judgment day. The thing is, none of us have the proper credentials. We all have invalid, poorly forged, and expired passports. We’d never be able to pass through security to get to the heavenly other side. Except for one thing.

“Truly I tell you, anyone who hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not come under judgment but has passed from death to life.” (John‬ ‭5‬:‭24,‬ ‭CSB)‬‬

If I believe Jesus was sent by God and accept His sacrifice as my salvation, I get a clean, new passport. It never expires. I can simply flash that thing, and I’ll be waved right through. Guaranteed. No questions asked. No need to remove my shoes or take anything out of my pockets.

Dear God, thank you for promising me safe passage into eternal life with you. I don’t deserve it, haven’t earned it, and don’t even know how to try. But I believe Jesus and gratefully accept my passport through judgment into your kingdom of love on the other side.