Saturday, May 10, 2008

Abundant Life - May 10, 2008

Good Saturday morning! Is there a good reason for eating breakfast before taking off on errands on a Saturday morning? Yes, evidence would suggest that sitting down to a good breakfast might aid in memory skills and the other mental disciplines necessary for operating well in the modern world. We don't need to go into specifics here, but suffice it to say that an extra trip or two was made by someone this morning. Now, I am safely at home and the wind and rain is beginning.

I am grateful that Luke was able to return to work yesterday. An extended time away from work can be difficult for all those involved in the matter. We prayed and in time our prayers were answered to the glory of God the Father. I think the first time that any of us suffers an unexpected injury or illness we have a confidence problem. Our health is suddenly more fragile both in body and mind, and even more than that we realize just how fragile this life can be. In a way we are grateful that this life will soon come to an end, but I don't think that any of us wants to leave behind loved ones. So we have that Christian conflict, I am ready to go home to Jesus and yet we still have a fear of the process of dying. Even Billy Graham, one whom we would consider a giant of the faith, had concerns about the process, though like us, he was sure of the outcome. Don't be ashamed of your fear of dying, Jesus came that we might have life and have it more abundantly. Part of that abundant life is, I think, a desire to go peacefully into the next life without pain or suffering. While "soon" may or may not be on your list of desired characteristics for dying, quickly is another one that comes to mind. We do fear an extended decline, even though that is what most of us will have as the years go by. I feel the decline at 45, and I'm sure that others feel it more or less at their present age.

The clouds and grey of the morning have fallen upon my outlook; let us think instead of life and living for the day. God has given us healing, and we know that by how much time Jesus spent in healing during His ministry about 2,000 years ago. We are lead through the dark valleys in order to help others with our understanding and strength in Christ Jesus. Oh yes, there is indeed abundant life during our time in this life, and our end will not come before the time that God has set. Have courage and faith in Jesus as you enjoy the abundant life that He has promised!

Have a wonderful weekend in Christ!

Bucky

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