Free? That’s a great deal! At least that is what CNET said about Sprint’s “Free Year of Unlimited Data!” CNET reassured their readers, “it’s not a joke;” and “there is no catch!” There is an exception though…you cannot be an existing customer.
According to CNET, the plan is to try to get new customers from Verizon. It isn’t being advertised, it isn’t available in stores, and the only way to get it is if you go online and bring your own phone to the deal.
So, assuming Sprint’s network works for you, and you have a phone you want to keep, this may just be good news for you. But existing customers get nothing more than the contract they already have. And they aren’t happy with that arrangement.
I’m reminded of a parable Jesus spoke in Matthew 20 about workers who had been hired to work in a vineyard. They agreed upon a price, and worked all day. Others, hired later in the day, worked fewer hours; some worked one hour. When it came time to pay though, everyone got the same – an entire day’s wage!
As you can imagine, the ones who worked all day weren’t happy. They thought they deserved more. The master reminded them that he had paid them their wage. He continued, “I wish to give to this last man the same as to you. Is it not lawful for me to do what I wish with my own things?”
Now, I admit, there are significant differences between the parable and Sprint deal. In a free-market economy, customers may negotiate, and even choose other vendors. But perhaps there is a good reminder for us, nevertheless.
God’s grace is immeasurable. Angels rejoice when one comes to the knowledge of the truth. The reward of the gospel is for all, whether faithful for 5 decades or 5 minutes. There is no better deal than eternal salvation!
But human nature gets in the way. Some think, “I’ve been faithful longer; I should get more reward,” Let’s check our hearts to ensure that we rejoice equally with all who receive God’s grace – no matter when. And, unlike the Sprint deal, don’t keep it quiet. Let’s shout the good news from the hilltops!
