“Give it your best.”

“What if my best isn’t good enough?”

“It’s good enough for me.”

Have I mentioned that I love Final Space? Olan Rogers has a knack for hitting all the right buttons, regardless of his format (he is a YouTube comedian). The above comes from a crucial point at the end of season 1, when our hero, Gary, is confronted with the very real possibility of not being able to do what he set out to accomplish (things don’t always work out in this show). His dad, John, gives him those encouraging words quoted above.

Aside from wanting to share the show and that fabulous exchange of words, I want to point out that in many ways this is what God asks of us.

Paul tells us “Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it.” This is him telling us that following Christ is about giving our all. Not about competing against others or winning. He’s telling us “Give it your best.”

And when we feel that won’t be enough we are reminded time and again “It’s good enough for me.”

“It is by grace through faith you are saved.”

“I desire mercy not sacrifice.”

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

God doesn’t need our effort. Or our help. In fact, he gave the law to demonstrate the futility of self-justification. And then did all the work of redemption himself too.

He wants us to contribute and he wants us to be a part of his kingdom. The few requirements for us to “join” are necessary: come out of rebellion, confess our Lord, and follow him. None of those are qualified by how well you do them, only that you give it your best… And God even strengthens and helps you be your best self through the Spirit.