Passing Through

"I tell you the truth, those who listen to my message and believe in God who sent me have eternal life. They will never be condemned for their sins, but they have already passed from death into life." John 5:24 NLT

Recently, I invited someone to the estate and funeral planning seminar this weekend. As is often the case, the gentleman graciously declined, saying he wasn't ready to think about that yet. His reaction isn't uncommon, though inevitable; most of us view our demise with trepidation. However, it's not something we rush towards.

As Christians, though, we have the assurance our death isn't really the end. As we are reborn in baptism, we also die to sin, our first death. In this spiritual death, our sins are forgiven, and we become benefactors of a new life. So while we must face mortality, we take comfort in knowing it is only a transition; we are passing through that thin veil separating heaven and earth.

There is an old song by country singer Jim Reeves f that speaks of our transitory state, "This World Is Not My Home." Here's the first verse:

This world is not my home I'm just a-passin' through

My treasures are laid up somewhere beyond the blue

The angels beckon me from heaven's open door

And I can't feel at home in this world anymore

Loving Father, giver of life, we thank you. We are grateful for our time on earth and for all times of sharing with families and friends. We are thankful for the new life found through Jesus Christ and the day we accepted salvation. We find peace knowing we are just passing through to our permanent home with you. Amen.

Blessings,

Pastor Tim