- August 2007 -

The Hope of Glory

In the midst of troubled times, can there be any hope?

Yesterday was a difficult day for many in our nation. For some, it was the day that they received news that their son, daughter, husband, or wife, had been killed at war. For others, it was the day they got a call from their physician saying that their case had become terminal. For thousands in Minneapolis, it was the day that they felt the terror of seeing a bridge collapse on the news, and in following...frantically attempted to contact loved ones to make sure they were alright. Many were not.

Our world is a difficult one and sometimes life just plain stinks.

In any given day, statistics tell us that over 150,000 people lose their lives in our world. With that staggering of a number, it seems it is only a matter of time until one of these deaths directly impact us. Soon it will be you or someone you love. With such a bleak outlook, is there any hope?

Take for instance my friend Diane. I met her a few years back as someone who showed interest in praying for our ministry. She was a kind-hearted, joyful, middle-aged woman with a great husband and family. She loved the Lord and had a passion to help others. In summary I found her to be a great person and loyal friend to our team. I had no idea the statistics would soon catch up to her.

A few months back, the doctors told Diane she had acquired a rare form of illness and dozens of tests ensued. As the reports came back, physicians were baffled and the outlook was not bright. Finally they told her she only had a few months to live. While many would allow such a diagnosis to bring them bitterness, Diane had something different.

I met her in the hospital a few weeks back as the doctors had told her it was only a matter of days she had left to live. In talking with her, I felt like I could have stumbled into the wrong room. Was this really a person who had been told she was going to die? She was optimistic, caring, and hopeful for the future. "How are you doing?" I remember asking her. "I'm OK," she said. "We're hoping for a miracle, but I know that my home is with the Lord."

Yesterday, Diane went home.

Jesus told us, "In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." In other words, Jesus does not guarantee that those who know Him will be avoided difficulties. Rather, He guarantees that they are coming. He does not offer an escape route from death, disease, sorrow, and trouble. Rather, He offers an entire new life to take hold of, through which we can stare these issues in the face and say, "I have hope through Jesus Christ."

The question is not, "How can I make it?" or "What can make my life easier?" Many focus their entire lives on acquiring wealth and possessions- with no thought, and no hope, for how to deal with the real issues of life. Yet the truth remains that the real question of life is this:

"Do YOU know Jesus?"

Diane knew Him... and today she is in his presence. Today, for the first time, she is truly alive.

Again, I ask you, "Do you know Him?" What about your neighbors, friends, and family members. Is there anything more important than sharing this Hope with them?

"...the mystery that has been kept hidden for ages and generations... which is Christ in you, the hope of glory." Colossians 1:26a, 27b

*If you have yet to receive Jesus Christ, you can do it right now.