Lifetime guarantee

One of my most-used Bibles has started to fall apart. The pages from 1 Samuel to Hebrews can completely lift out in one separate section. Now in theory, I don't have to worry because this Bible came with a lifetime guarantee. Sounds good right? But I have begun to realize how pointless that is.

Maybe you wouldn't have a problem with just turning it in and getting a new one. But my Bibles holds memories. There are notes in the margins, dedications in the front, verses underlined and bookmarks at significant passages. The feel of its cover and heft of its pages are all familiar friends to me. And except for the removable section, it is in quite good condition. It is, in fact, a book I can't just give up for a replacement. I think I can repair it with "Yes" glue (yes - that is the product name), an adhesive I regularly use in art projects and more. Once it sets up, its a very strong hold that can't be broken without damage to the item it's holding.

Do you suppose the publishers of this particular Bible understood that I wouldn't be able to give up my Bible when they offered their lifetime guarantee? Not in any way am I accusing them of underhandedness but really, think about it. If you know it's not going to happen, it's a pretty safe offer to give.

I'm glad that God's lifetime guarantee isn't subject to the same dilemma. It's a take-it-and-take-it offer. All we need to do is say "Yes" and we are stuck to Him in a way that can't easily be separated.

"For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." Romans 8:38-39

It's permanent on God's part. And that's a lifetime (and beyond) guarantee.

"And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." Matthew 28:20

So I'm going to go fix my Bible. It's not going anywhere.