September 13, 2018

Sunday message from September 9th can be found here...

https://youtu.be/bE1bv2CeAUA

Sad Hearts; Renewed Hope

    Loss is difficult.  When we lose an object that is important to our daily routine we can be thrown out of sorts until that item can be found.  Ever lose your car keys and need to get somewhere?  How about misplacing your purse, your wallet or your cell phone?  This can really cause us some headaches.
    Even worse, what if something is stolen from you?  Any of the items above, or others, may never be recovered and are gone for good.  In the event they can be replaced, the one thing that can not be recovered is the emotional strain of the loss.  The feeling of vulnerability cracks our feelings of security.   We are left with questions like 'why did this happen?' or 'how could this happen?'.  We are left with feelings of sadness, hopelessness, anger, confusion and others.
    At no greater time are these emotions strained when that loss is person you love.  Even more questions and emotions begin to swirl around in our hearts and our heads and the depth of the hurt is so much deeper.  We recognize that this type of loss is permanent.  Our loved one is gone from us, never to return to this life with us.  Unlike an object, there is an undeniable void that is left behind in every family, congregation and community by that person's death.
 
    A matter of perspective...
 
    If we look at this from the perspective of heaven, we would see a joyous celebration at the arrival of a son or daughter that will take their position in eternity with Christ and the communion of Saints.  From heaven's view, we would witness the excited congratulations and welcoming into a new life.  We can imagine being shown around heaven, a heavenly body and an eternity free from the sin and suffering of this world.
    For us?  Well we have the assurance of Jesus Christ that one day we can be united with Him in heaven as well.  Moreover, we will be united with the ones we love and the whole church and heavenly hosts.  This reality is 100% because of God's grace through our faith in Jesus Christ.  Our loss here on earth is real, because we will be separated for a time, but our hope is found in the living God, who created the heavens, the earth and each of us. So take heart, for we will be united with all the faithful followers in God's timing.

Blessings and Hope in our Lord Jesus Christ

Pastor Jeremy