But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man. For it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings.
Hebrews 2:9-10
Despite her high position, Princess Elizabeth lived under the same rationing restrictions as everyone else in Britain during and after World War II. The royal family used the same coupon system to obtain food, clothing, and other necessities, setting an example of shared sacrifice for the nation.
Rationing was still in effect in 1947 when Princess Elizabeth prepared to marry Prince Philip. To obtain the fabric for her wedding gown, she had to save enough clothing coupons. People from across the country sent her their own coupons as an expression of love and appreciation, but every one of them had to be returned. The law did not allow ration coupons to be transferred. No matter how generous the gifts were, Elizabeth could not use someone else’s coupons to purchase her dress.
No one else can pay the debt of sin that we owe for us. The fact that our parents or grandparents were Christians does not make us Christians. Their faith may influence us, and the truth they believed may be taught to us, but each person must personally respond to the gospel.
Some attempt to deal with their sin through good works, rule keeping, or religious observance, but none of these can pay the debt we owe. Our salvation cannot come from a family member, a church, or any effort of our own. It can come only through Jesus Christ. He went to the cross and endured the suffering our sins deserved. Salvation cannot be earned or inherited, but it is freely given to everyone who places faith in Him.
