Today at church, Pastor Rick said something that really made me stop and think. He was talking about how short our lives here on earth are compared to what awaits us. Even if we live to be 100 years old, that's nothing compared to forever.
We spend so much time worrying about this life. We worry about things that might never happen. We make plans for our future and try to prepare for everything we can. But how often do we stop and think about what comes after this life? Something Pastor said really stuck with me. He said that if a believer is wrong about heaven, they've lost nothing. But if an unbeliever is wrong, they've lost everything. That made me think about how much time and attention we give to things that won't last, while sometimes overlooking what matters most.
"So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." 2 Corinthians 4:18 (NIV)
Everything we have here is temporary. Our possessions, our worries, and even the struggles that sometimes feel like they'll never end. But God's promises are everlasting. That doesn't mean our lives here don't matter. They absolutely do. But I think sometimes we get so caught up in what's happening around us that we forget there's something so much greater waiting for us.
As I sat there listening, I started thinking about all the people who don't know Jesus yet. Not because I think I'm better than anyone else. Believe me, I know where I came from. But because I know what His love has done in my life, and I wish everyone could experience it for themselves. Jesus didn't just give me hope for what comes after this life. He changed my life here on earth. He gave me a new beginning when I thought I'd ruined every chance I had. And knowing that one day I'll be with Him makes the troubles of this life seem so much smaller. I don't want anyone to miss out on knowing that kind of love.
"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." John 3:16 (NIV)
I love that this verse says "the world." Not just people who have lived good lives or people who have never made mistakes. His love is for everyone. And that includes you.
If you're reading this and you don't know Jesus, I want you to know that His love isn't just for certain people. It's for you, too. You don't have to have your whole life figured out before you come to Him. I certainly didn't. This life goes by so quickly, and none of us knows how much time we have left. But we do have the opportunity right now to turn to Jesus and receive the gift of salvation. Because the greatest gift Jesus has given me isn't just the promise of heaven. It's knowing that I belong to Him, both now and forever.
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for loving us enough to send Your Son, Jesus, so we can have eternal life with You. Lord, I pray for anyone reading this who doesn't know You yet. Please open their heart to Your love and help them see how much You care for them. I pray they come to know the peace and hope that only You can give. Help me never take Your love or Your promises for granted.
In Jesus’ mighty name, Amen.