"Very truly, I tell you, anyone who hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life, and does not come under judgment, but has passed from death to life." John 5:24 (NRSV)
This verse offers beautiful words of hope and promise. Through our belief in the message of Jesus Christ, our lives are changed immediately and forever. An amazing transformation happens. We are given the promise of eternal life, and our perception of the here and now changes. The chains to those earthly carnal temporary pleasures that once found bound us are broken, and the pure life-saving Holy Spirit frees us.
Author and theologian, C.S. Lewis in his book “The Joyful Christian,” says, “Aim at Heaven and you will get Earth ‘thrown in’: aim at Earth and you will get neither.” The good things we experienced in this life are a bonus, but we must keep our aim firmly focused on Heaven. Our salvation is not a “one and done” thing, but a continual evolvement and transformation. We must not grow complacent but use each day as an opportunity to grow into the righteousness of God so that when our days have come to a close, we may stand before God purely. The promise found in Christ is that our end is not death but a transition into a new life.
God, we give you thanks for transformation. We give thanks for the promise of eternal life but also the change you make in us immediately. We give you thanks for being freed from our bonds of sin. Precious and loving savior, please help us share Christ’s message with others this day that they may come to know your promise. Amen.
Peace,
Pastor Tim
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