“This is eternal life: that they may know you, the only true God, and the one you have sent – Jesus Christ.” John 17:3
All the hype about heaven, the streets of gold, mansions, pearly gates, and more, pale compared to being restored to fellowship with our Heavenly Father. Christ Jesus made it clear, eternal life is not so much about the place but who we will be spending that everlasting life WITH!
We came into this world with nothing, and we will leave this world taking nothing with us. We will leave all our worldly possessions behind. Our only hope is in taking those we love and cherish with us. It’s our relationships that matter the most. Think of it…would our material blessings, our car, boat, house, or 401k mean much if we had no one to share them with? If that is true about life on this earth, how much more will it matter in eternal life?
The apostle Paul spoke of the things he once considered of great value: “Everything that was a gain to me, I have considered to be a loss because of Christ. More than that, I also consider everything to be a loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.” Phil 3:7-8
With this truth in mind then, wouldn’t it make more sense to spend less energy and time accumulating things which are temporal and devote ourselves to nurturing our relationships which could be eternal?
Did you catch the “could be” eternal?
Not everyone is going to heaven when they die. It is only those who have placed their faith and trust in Christ Jesus who will be assured of eternal life. It is sin that separates us from God and faith in Christ that restores us to God.
“You are saved by grace through faith, and this is not from yourselves; it is God’s gift – not from works, so that no one can boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9
It is God’s gift, God’s offer of salvation, the forgiveness of all sin. But it does not come to anyone automatically. Like all gifts it must be received, accepted.
“To all who did receive Him, He gave them the right to be children of God.” John 1:12
Life with God is a gift available to all. Knowing Him is the key to life, both here on earth and eternal life in heaven.
Come! Enjoy the streets of gold…with all of us who have placed our faith in Christ Jesus!
Blessed by you…. Bro. Sherman
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