Given the opportunity to purchase a place in heaven, how much would you pay? Several years ago, a survey was done that asked the wealthiest 1 percent of Americans that very question. This elite group of about one million households earned at least $250,000 per year and had a net worth of at least $2.5 million. These millionaires gave the following breakdown of what they would spend for certain unique opportunities.

For great beauty, the average price they would willingly pay was $83,000. For talent, they would spend $285,000. Great intellect was worth $407,000 to them, and they said true love was worth $487,000.

The highest bid on any item went for a place in heaven. To secure their spot in eternity, these wealthy Americans said they would part with $640,000.

Isn’t it interesting that even if heaven could be bought, those who have the most money don’t want to spend more than 25 percent of their net worth to get there? What a stark contrast to the 100 percent investment Christ made to secure our eternal destiny.

The amazing thing is, because heaven cost Jesus everything, it costs you nothing! Jesus gives it to you as a gift of love! All of your money, all of your talent, and all of your resources together could not make a down payment on heaven.

Jesus does, however, ask for something in response to the gift. He asks for us – everything we are and have. As frightening as that may seem, just as soon as we give it, he gives it back for us to enjoy until we get to heaven. You can’t beat this bargain anywhere!

With Love,

Mike