November 2017
Gift of Expectation, 26 November 2017
The Gift of Expectancy
Series—The Gifts of Christmas
John 3:16-21
Big Idea: The gift of Jesus is worth waiting for…and worth sharing.
Skit Guys Video
Introduction
Do you ever feel like that dad? Thanksgiving’s over and now it’s full throttle until Christmas? It’s quite a transition, dominated, of course, by Black Friday which apparently begins before Friday and continues past Friday. Tomorrow is Cyber Monday followed by Giving Tuesday and…
Do you have rules about Christmas music? When I met Heather, she wouldn’t listen to Christmas music until December 1. I thought that was a bit extreme, but so are those radio stations that begin November 1. For me, Christmas begins when I see Santa in the Thanksgiving Day Parade. What rules do you have in your home about Christmas music and decorations? Often they are passed down from generation to generation. Do you hide a baby Jesus?
Advent. We commonly associate it with Christmas. Years ago our family had Advent calendars and I’ve been pleasantly surprised to see Advent calendar gaining popularity. The term “advent” comes from Latin and means “coming” or “arrival.” With any arrival, there is anticipation and expectancy which means waiting.
At this very moment, what are you waiting for? Complete this sentence:
“I can’t wait for _________________.”
Today we begin a five-week Advent series called The Gifts of Christmas. Do you like gifts? Of course, we all love gifts! They are great to receive and even better to give.
Today we’re looking at the gift of expectancy. Sometimes expectancy doesn’t feel like a gift. In fact, it may feel like torture. As I child, I couldn’t wait for Christmas, to open those colorfully-wrapped boxes…and hopefully find more toys than clothes! But the more anticipation, the greater the reward when the waiting is over and the arrival is experienced.
It’s impossible for us to understand how great the expectancy of the Messiah, Jesus. People waited for hundreds of years for this baby. Announcements were made. Clues were given. Finding baby Jesus was different than looking for a hidden nativity set piece. Dr. Luke described the clues given about two thousand years ago.
And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” (Luke 2:8-12)
How do you think these shepherds reacted to their angelic encounter? After calming down from the shock, I’m quite sure they said, “That was strange, now let’s get back to shepherding.” No! They probably wanted to run and see this gift from the Heavenly Father which was good news “for all the people.”
Can you imagine good news for all the people today? That would be so great, and yet that’s why we’re here. That’s why we exist…to proclaim the gospel, the good news. Jesus is the greatest news in human history, and we stand at a special time between the first coming and the second coming of Jesus. We look back at Bethlehem two thousand years ago, but we also anticipate His return.
I’ll tell you how the shepherds reacted to the news that the Messiah was coming. A few verses later it says,
So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. (Luke 2:16)
Jesus’ half-brother wrote,
Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. (James 1:17)
The greatest gift of all is Jesus. Have you received the gift? Do you know Jesus? Many know about Him, but you can know Him personally.
Jesus is the greatest gift, sent from the Father of the heavenly lights. God created the heavens, the sun, the moon, the stars…and they reflect His beauty, genius, and creativity. He is a loving Father who loves to give good gifts to His children. Many tragically think of God as a mean creature with the personality of The Grinch. Instead, He is the most loving Dad. His generosity makes Santa Claus look downright stingy! Jesus said
“Which of you, if your son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him! (Matthew 7:9-11)
We’ve been given good gifts since the creation of our magnificent world. When we messed it up, God realized we needed help—serious help! Our sins—those things which offend God and His perfection—created a wall between us and God. But since God is all about relationships, He offered a gift to us to knock down the wall, to allow us to know our Creator, have our sins forgiven, experience real joy and purpose, and engage in real life. The most famous verse in the Bible says
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)
But there’s more!
For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son. This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that their deeds will be exposed. But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what they have done has been done in the sight of God. (John 3:17-21)
The Father of Lights gives good gifts…great gifts…the most excellent gifts! He loves the world. He loves you and me. He demonstrated His love by sending Jesus to be the Savior of the world, saving us from sin and death, mediocre living, evil, and hopelessness. People waited for generations for Jesus’ first arrival even as we await for his second arrival…which could be any day! Even though Jesus is not physically present, make no mistake…he is here! He is transforming people through faith, hope and love. Do you know him?
Which Jesus?
There was a woman named Charlotte who ran a Christian pre- school. She bought a plush Jesus toy. He was happy and smiling and all squishy; the way a cuddly toy should be. Some of the parents objected. They thought it was “inappropriate.”
Charlotte didn’t hesitate. She knew the question she needed to ask. She asked “Which Jesus do you want your kids to know? The breakable Jesus on the high shelf who’s always looking down on them OR the Jesus who’s huggable and sits with them on the
comfy couch, the one they can talk to, the one that comforts them when they’re hurt, the one they tell all their secrets.
Which Jesus are we actually expecting at Advent. The one who plays games with us and brings us life or the one who sits on the shelf until it’s time to go back in the box?
Wise Men Still Seek Him
My prayer for you, regardless of where you find yourself today on your spiritual journey, is that you would look for Jesus. I don’t mean the plastic figure from the nativity set—though you might want to hide him until December 25—but the real Jesus, the one the shepherds pursued, the one who lived a perfect life, died, rose from the dead, ascended into heaven, and promised to return. He came to show us what it means to truly be human. He demonstrated true love, the kind of love that gives until there’s nothing left to give. He said,
“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened. (Matthew 7:7-8)
Wise men—and women—still seek him. Ask. Seek. Knock. You are invited this advent to know your Creator. This is not about religion. It’s not even about the Bible. It’s about knowing a Person, Jesus Christ, the Messiah, the Savior, the greatest gift.
Will you seek him this season? Will you pursue him? We are awaiting his return, but he has been waiting for some of you to surrender your life to him, to embrace him as the greatest gift.
If you’ve already received the gift, know Jesus is not slow in keeping his promise to return. He hasn’t forgotten you. Rather, he has a mission for you, a mission to proclaim the gospel, the good news, the gift.
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)
We often think of eternal life as referring to a length of time, but some scholars understand the original Greek to be qualitative, not quantitative. Following Jesus means we can have an amazing, fulfilling, satisfying life now. Don’t just sit around and impatiently wait for his return. Be ready, but use these precious moments to help people discover the missing piece in their Nativity set, the missing Person in their life.
So What?
How can you bring Jesus to Toledo? Maybe you can do it through Christmas caroling, delivering cookies, inviting a neighbor out for coffee, or even inviting a friend to join us next Sunday or any Sunday in December. For the next four weeks we’ll be talking about the gifts of Christmas. This is a season of expectation. If you’ve received the gift, it’s time to share it until He returns.
Credits: title and some ideas from The Skit Guys.
You can listen to this message and others at the First Alliance Church podcast here.
Series—The Gifts of Christmas
John 3:16-21
Big Idea: The gift of Jesus is worth waiting for…and worth sharing.
Skit Guys Video
Introduction
Do you ever feel like that dad? Thanksgiving’s over and now it’s full throttle until Christmas? It’s quite a transition, dominated, of course, by Black Friday which apparently begins before Friday and continues past Friday. Tomorrow is Cyber Monday followed by Giving Tuesday and…
Do you have rules about Christmas music? When I met Heather, she wouldn’t listen to Christmas music until December 1. I thought that was a bit extreme, but so are those radio stations that begin November 1. For me, Christmas begins when I see Santa in the Thanksgiving Day Parade. What rules do you have in your home about Christmas music and decorations? Often they are passed down from generation to generation. Do you hide a baby Jesus?
Advent. We commonly associate it with Christmas. Years ago our family had Advent calendars and I’ve been pleasantly surprised to see Advent calendar gaining popularity. The term “advent” comes from Latin and means “coming” or “arrival.” With any arrival, there is anticipation and expectancy which means waiting.
At this very moment, what are you waiting for? Complete this sentence:
“I can’t wait for _________________.”
Today we begin a five-week Advent series called The Gifts of Christmas. Do you like gifts? Of course, we all love gifts! They are great to receive and even better to give.
Today we’re looking at the gift of expectancy. Sometimes expectancy doesn’t feel like a gift. In fact, it may feel like torture. As I child, I couldn’t wait for Christmas, to open those colorfully-wrapped boxes…and hopefully find more toys than clothes! But the more anticipation, the greater the reward when the waiting is over and the arrival is experienced.
It’s impossible for us to understand how great the expectancy of the Messiah, Jesus. People waited for hundreds of years for this baby. Announcements were made. Clues were given. Finding baby Jesus was different than looking for a hidden nativity set piece. Dr. Luke described the clues given about two thousand years ago.
And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” (Luke 2:8-12)
How do you think these shepherds reacted to their angelic encounter? After calming down from the shock, I’m quite sure they said, “That was strange, now let’s get back to shepherding.” No! They probably wanted to run and see this gift from the Heavenly Father which was good news “for all the people.”
Can you imagine good news for all the people today? That would be so great, and yet that’s why we’re here. That’s why we exist…to proclaim the gospel, the good news. Jesus is the greatest news in human history, and we stand at a special time between the first coming and the second coming of Jesus. We look back at Bethlehem two thousand years ago, but we also anticipate His return.
I’ll tell you how the shepherds reacted to the news that the Messiah was coming. A few verses later it says,
So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. (Luke 2:16)
Jesus’ half-brother wrote,
Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. (James 1:17)
The greatest gift of all is Jesus. Have you received the gift? Do you know Jesus? Many know about Him, but you can know Him personally.
Jesus is the greatest gift, sent from the Father of the heavenly lights. God created the heavens, the sun, the moon, the stars…and they reflect His beauty, genius, and creativity. He is a loving Father who loves to give good gifts to His children. Many tragically think of God as a mean creature with the personality of The Grinch. Instead, He is the most loving Dad. His generosity makes Santa Claus look downright stingy! Jesus said
“Which of you, if your son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him! (Matthew 7:9-11)
We’ve been given good gifts since the creation of our magnificent world. When we messed it up, God realized we needed help—serious help! Our sins—those things which offend God and His perfection—created a wall between us and God. But since God is all about relationships, He offered a gift to us to knock down the wall, to allow us to know our Creator, have our sins forgiven, experience real joy and purpose, and engage in real life. The most famous verse in the Bible says
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)
But there’s more!
For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son. This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that their deeds will be exposed. But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what they have done has been done in the sight of God. (John 3:17-21)
The Father of Lights gives good gifts…great gifts…the most excellent gifts! He loves the world. He loves you and me. He demonstrated His love by sending Jesus to be the Savior of the world, saving us from sin and death, mediocre living, evil, and hopelessness. People waited for generations for Jesus’ first arrival even as we await for his second arrival…which could be any day! Even though Jesus is not physically present, make no mistake…he is here! He is transforming people through faith, hope and love. Do you know him?
Which Jesus?
There was a woman named Charlotte who ran a Christian pre- school. She bought a plush Jesus toy. He was happy and smiling and all squishy; the way a cuddly toy should be. Some of the parents objected. They thought it was “inappropriate.”
Charlotte didn’t hesitate. She knew the question she needed to ask. She asked “Which Jesus do you want your kids to know? The breakable Jesus on the high shelf who’s always looking down on them OR the Jesus who’s huggable and sits with them on the
comfy couch, the one they can talk to, the one that comforts them when they’re hurt, the one they tell all their secrets.
Which Jesus are we actually expecting at Advent. The one who plays games with us and brings us life or the one who sits on the shelf until it’s time to go back in the box?
Wise Men Still Seek Him
My prayer for you, regardless of where you find yourself today on your spiritual journey, is that you would look for Jesus. I don’t mean the plastic figure from the nativity set—though you might want to hide him until December 25—but the real Jesus, the one the shepherds pursued, the one who lived a perfect life, died, rose from the dead, ascended into heaven, and promised to return. He came to show us what it means to truly be human. He demonstrated true love, the kind of love that gives until there’s nothing left to give. He said,
“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened. (Matthew 7:7-8)
Wise men—and women—still seek him. Ask. Seek. Knock. You are invited this advent to know your Creator. This is not about religion. It’s not even about the Bible. It’s about knowing a Person, Jesus Christ, the Messiah, the Savior, the greatest gift.
Will you seek him this season? Will you pursue him? We are awaiting his return, but he has been waiting for some of you to surrender your life to him, to embrace him as the greatest gift.
If you’ve already received the gift, know Jesus is not slow in keeping his promise to return. He hasn’t forgotten you. Rather, he has a mission for you, a mission to proclaim the gospel, the good news, the gift.
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)
We often think of eternal life as referring to a length of time, but some scholars understand the original Greek to be qualitative, not quantitative. Following Jesus means we can have an amazing, fulfilling, satisfying life now. Don’t just sit around and impatiently wait for his return. Be ready, but use these precious moments to help people discover the missing piece in their Nativity set, the missing Person in their life.
So What?
How can you bring Jesus to Toledo? Maybe you can do it through Christmas caroling, delivering cookies, inviting a neighbor out for coffee, or even inviting a friend to join us next Sunday or any Sunday in December. For the next four weeks we’ll be talking about the gifts of Christmas. This is a season of expectation. If you’ve received the gift, it’s time to share it until He returns.
Credits: title and some ideas from The Skit Guys.
Give Thanks, 19 November 2017
21 11 17 Filed in: Sermons
Give Thanks
Luke 17:11-19
Big Idea: Gratefulness brings happiness, peace, contentment, and joy.
Introduction
Thanksgiving. It’s almost the forgotten holiday between the two big decoration days, Halloween and Christmas. Sure, turkey and pumpkin pie sales skyrocket, but the economy is not stimulated as it is when people are buying costumes and candy or an endless pile of Christmas gifts. For many, Black Friday is almost a bigger deal than Thursday.
Before you debate the merits or demerits of cranberry sauce, watch football, and check the pile of ads in The Toledo Blade’s biggest edition of the year, we’re going to give you a head start on giving thanks. Each of us has so much for which to be thankful, yet are we truly grateful?
Today’s text is a story I heard many times over the years but never fully understood.
Now on his way to Jerusalem, Jesus traveled along the border between Samaria and Galilee. (Luke 17:11)
Jesus is between Galilee and Samaria. To get to Jerusalem, Jews traveled south to Jericho (45 miles) and then turned west to Jerusalem (15 miles). This is a 60-mile journey.
As he was going into a village, ten men who had leprosy met him. They stood at a distance and called out in a loud voice, “Jesus, Master, have pity on us!” (Luke 17:12-13)
It’s hard to imagine the devastating effects of leprosy. Although leprosy refers to a variety of conditions, it was essentially a death sentence, at least socially and economically, to say nothing of the physical pain. Lepers were truly untouchable. They had to live isolated from others, which means they probably couldn’t work or even beg except from a great distance (as it says in this verse).
The Jewish law gave clear instructions for dealing with skin diseases.
When anyone has a defiling skin disease, they must be brought to the priest. The priest is to examine them… (Leviticus 13:9-10a)
The priest declared people clean or unclean. I’m so glad I don’t have that responsibility today! Later in Leviticus chapter 13 it says
“Anyone with such a defiling disease must wear torn clothes, let their hair be unkempt, cover the lower part of their face and cry out, ‘Unclean! Unclean!’ As long as they have the disease they remain unclean. They must live alone; they must live outside the camp. (Leviticus 13:45-46)
As he was going into a village, ten men who had leprosy met him. They stood at a distance and called out in a loud voice, “Jesus, Master, have pity on us!” (Luke 17:12-13)
The ten men stay at a distance and respectfully call out to Jesus for help.
It’s interesting how they called Jesus, “Master.” Every English translation of the Bible I examined used the same word, master. They must’ve heard about the healings he performed elsewhere and believed he could heal them. What faith!
When he saw them, he said, “Go, show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went, they were cleansed. (Luke 17:14)
The text does not say Jesus reached out, touched them, and they were immediately healed. Jesus saw them and told them to go to the priests. He’s saying, “Walk 60 miles to see the priests in Jerusalem!” They had to literally take a step of faith and it was on their journey they were cleansed. They had to obey and as they took action, they were healed.
I’ve heard this story countless times but this is the first time I noticed they weren’t instantly healed, but rather found their healing as they obediently headed to the priests, the ones who could and would declare them clean and giving them an entirely new lease on life.
How many times do we want God to zap a miracle into our lives? Perhaps there is action we must take in order for God to do what only God can do. If you want a job, pray…and send out resumes and go on interviews. If you want a great spouse, be a great spouse first. If you are sick, ask for prayer…and possibly consider medical tools such as doctors and therapists.
Sometimes God calls us to go to a new place, to take a step of faith. As part of our trust in God we must start walking, even if we can’t see the destination. The only thing that matters is Who called you. Blessings are linked to faith and our actions demonstrate our faith.
One of them, when he saw he was healed, came back, praising God in a loud voice. He threw himself at Jesus’ feet and thanked him—and he was a Samaritan. (Luke 17:15-16)
One says thanks, but notice it’s not just any leper, it’s a Samaritan. They were hated by the Jews for being racial half-breeds. Jesus helping a leper was scandalous. Jesus talking to a Samaritan was radical. Jesus being involved with a Samaritan leper—a double strike—was inconceivable. Many Jews thought such a person was beyond help.
Notice the language Luke uses to describe this man’s appreciation. First, he notices he is healed, a marvelous moment. Then he heads back to Jesus. How far did he go? We don’t know but it could’ve been several miles, perhaps nearly 60 miles! He praises God—in a loud voice—along the way. He couldn’t contain his joy. Can you blame him?
When he finally gets to Jesus, he doesn’t simply shake his hand and say, “Thanks.” He throws himself and the feet of Jesus and thanks him. This man is grateful…and Jesus notices.
Jesus asked, “Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine? Has no one returned to give praise to God except this foreigner?” Then he said to him, “Rise and go; your faith has made you well.” (Luke 17:17-19)
When the high priest declares you clean, you must take a ritual bath. You go down one side unclean and exit clean from the mikveh. In a way, it’s similar to what we’ll experience next Sunday during baptism. We enter the water grave as sinners, we die to our sinful nature, and come out of the water resurrected with Jesus. This is all symbolic, of course, but perhaps a parallel to the ritual bath of ancient times to announce an unclean person’s status as now clean.
There were ten men. Only one returns. Where are the other nine? That’s what Jesus wants to know! Nevertheless, one man is filled with gratitude and goes out of his way to express it. Some have suggested that though they were all physically healed, this man’s faith has made him well spiritually, he has received salvation.
I want to close with a few thoughts on gratefulness, some from Dr. Gary Burge. First,
1. Gratefulness is a choice
We all have a mix of good and bad in our lives. I bet I could get each of you to think of three things you’d like to change about your life…and three things for which to be thankful.
A young mom once said, “Sometimes you’ve got to decide which end of the baby you’re going to look at!”
2. Gratefulness is an act of faith
It requires action. It declares it’s not all about me, but I will go out of my way to show appreciation, even when there remain things we simply don’t understand.
3. Gratefulness is subversive in a cynical age
It’s easy to complain, especially when surrounded by others who are equally dissatisfied. They say misery loves company. Choosing not to whine and, instead, giving thanks for the good things is radical and sometimes quite attractive. Who wants to be around gloomy, groaning people? Being grateful will impact those around you.
4. Gratefulness honors God
Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)
This doesn’t say give thanks for everything, but in all circumstances. No matter the storm, it can always be worse. I don’t mean ignore reality and be fake, but there are always things for which to give thanks.
5. Gratefulness will change you
It will expand your heart, shift your perspective, and alter your attitude.
Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. (Philippians 4:8)
Someone said, “Gratefulness is an antidote to a small soul living in a house of fear. Gratefulness helps you become a large soul living in a house of faith.”
Gratefulness brings happiness, peace, contentment, and joy.
Exercise: write a thank you note to God
The thing about gratefulness is it only takes a moment to experience, an intentional pause in your life to give thanks. You need not wait until Thursday—or only do it once a year! Every day is a great day to give thanks and be grateful.
Credits: Some ideas from Dr. Gary Burge.
You can listen to this message and others at the First Alliance Church podcast here.
Luke 17:11-19
Big Idea: Gratefulness brings happiness, peace, contentment, and joy.
Introduction
Thanksgiving. It’s almost the forgotten holiday between the two big decoration days, Halloween and Christmas. Sure, turkey and pumpkin pie sales skyrocket, but the economy is not stimulated as it is when people are buying costumes and candy or an endless pile of Christmas gifts. For many, Black Friday is almost a bigger deal than Thursday.
Before you debate the merits or demerits of cranberry sauce, watch football, and check the pile of ads in The Toledo Blade’s biggest edition of the year, we’re going to give you a head start on giving thanks. Each of us has so much for which to be thankful, yet are we truly grateful?
Today’s text is a story I heard many times over the years but never fully understood.
Now on his way to Jerusalem, Jesus traveled along the border between Samaria and Galilee. (Luke 17:11)
Jesus is between Galilee and Samaria. To get to Jerusalem, Jews traveled south to Jericho (45 miles) and then turned west to Jerusalem (15 miles). This is a 60-mile journey.
As he was going into a village, ten men who had leprosy met him. They stood at a distance and called out in a loud voice, “Jesus, Master, have pity on us!” (Luke 17:12-13)
It’s hard to imagine the devastating effects of leprosy. Although leprosy refers to a variety of conditions, it was essentially a death sentence, at least socially and economically, to say nothing of the physical pain. Lepers were truly untouchable. They had to live isolated from others, which means they probably couldn’t work or even beg except from a great distance (as it says in this verse).
The Jewish law gave clear instructions for dealing with skin diseases.
When anyone has a defiling skin disease, they must be brought to the priest. The priest is to examine them… (Leviticus 13:9-10a)
The priest declared people clean or unclean. I’m so glad I don’t have that responsibility today! Later in Leviticus chapter 13 it says
“Anyone with such a defiling disease must wear torn clothes, let their hair be unkempt, cover the lower part of their face and cry out, ‘Unclean! Unclean!’ As long as they have the disease they remain unclean. They must live alone; they must live outside the camp. (Leviticus 13:45-46)
As he was going into a village, ten men who had leprosy met him. They stood at a distance and called out in a loud voice, “Jesus, Master, have pity on us!” (Luke 17:12-13)
The ten men stay at a distance and respectfully call out to Jesus for help.
It’s interesting how they called Jesus, “Master.” Every English translation of the Bible I examined used the same word, master. They must’ve heard about the healings he performed elsewhere and believed he could heal them. What faith!
When he saw them, he said, “Go, show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went, they were cleansed. (Luke 17:14)
The text does not say Jesus reached out, touched them, and they were immediately healed. Jesus saw them and told them to go to the priests. He’s saying, “Walk 60 miles to see the priests in Jerusalem!” They had to literally take a step of faith and it was on their journey they were cleansed. They had to obey and as they took action, they were healed.
I’ve heard this story countless times but this is the first time I noticed they weren’t instantly healed, but rather found their healing as they obediently headed to the priests, the ones who could and would declare them clean and giving them an entirely new lease on life.
How many times do we want God to zap a miracle into our lives? Perhaps there is action we must take in order for God to do what only God can do. If you want a job, pray…and send out resumes and go on interviews. If you want a great spouse, be a great spouse first. If you are sick, ask for prayer…and possibly consider medical tools such as doctors and therapists.
Sometimes God calls us to go to a new place, to take a step of faith. As part of our trust in God we must start walking, even if we can’t see the destination. The only thing that matters is Who called you. Blessings are linked to faith and our actions demonstrate our faith.
One of them, when he saw he was healed, came back, praising God in a loud voice. He threw himself at Jesus’ feet and thanked him—and he was a Samaritan. (Luke 17:15-16)
One says thanks, but notice it’s not just any leper, it’s a Samaritan. They were hated by the Jews for being racial half-breeds. Jesus helping a leper was scandalous. Jesus talking to a Samaritan was radical. Jesus being involved with a Samaritan leper—a double strike—was inconceivable. Many Jews thought such a person was beyond help.
Notice the language Luke uses to describe this man’s appreciation. First, he notices he is healed, a marvelous moment. Then he heads back to Jesus. How far did he go? We don’t know but it could’ve been several miles, perhaps nearly 60 miles! He praises God—in a loud voice—along the way. He couldn’t contain his joy. Can you blame him?
When he finally gets to Jesus, he doesn’t simply shake his hand and say, “Thanks.” He throws himself and the feet of Jesus and thanks him. This man is grateful…and Jesus notices.
Jesus asked, “Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine? Has no one returned to give praise to God except this foreigner?” Then he said to him, “Rise and go; your faith has made you well.” (Luke 17:17-19)
When the high priest declares you clean, you must take a ritual bath. You go down one side unclean and exit clean from the mikveh. In a way, it’s similar to what we’ll experience next Sunday during baptism. We enter the water grave as sinners, we die to our sinful nature, and come out of the water resurrected with Jesus. This is all symbolic, of course, but perhaps a parallel to the ritual bath of ancient times to announce an unclean person’s status as now clean.
There were ten men. Only one returns. Where are the other nine? That’s what Jesus wants to know! Nevertheless, one man is filled with gratitude and goes out of his way to express it. Some have suggested that though they were all physically healed, this man’s faith has made him well spiritually, he has received salvation.
I want to close with a few thoughts on gratefulness, some from Dr. Gary Burge. First,
1. Gratefulness is a choice
We all have a mix of good and bad in our lives. I bet I could get each of you to think of three things you’d like to change about your life…and three things for which to be thankful.
A young mom once said, “Sometimes you’ve got to decide which end of the baby you’re going to look at!”
2. Gratefulness is an act of faith
It requires action. It declares it’s not all about me, but I will go out of my way to show appreciation, even when there remain things we simply don’t understand.
3. Gratefulness is subversive in a cynical age
It’s easy to complain, especially when surrounded by others who are equally dissatisfied. They say misery loves company. Choosing not to whine and, instead, giving thanks for the good things is radical and sometimes quite attractive. Who wants to be around gloomy, groaning people? Being grateful will impact those around you.
4. Gratefulness honors God
Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)
This doesn’t say give thanks for everything, but in all circumstances. No matter the storm, it can always be worse. I don’t mean ignore reality and be fake, but there are always things for which to give thanks.
5. Gratefulness will change you
It will expand your heart, shift your perspective, and alter your attitude.
Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. (Philippians 4:8)
Someone said, “Gratefulness is an antidote to a small soul living in a house of fear. Gratefulness helps you become a large soul living in a house of faith.”
Gratefulness brings happiness, peace, contentment, and joy.
Exercise: write a thank you note to God
The thing about gratefulness is it only takes a moment to experience, an intentional pause in your life to give thanks. You need not wait until Thursday—or only do it once a year! Every day is a great day to give thanks and be grateful.
Credits: Some ideas from Dr. Gary Burge.
Matters of Life & Death, 12 November 2017
12 11 17 Filed in: Sermons
Matters of Life & Death
Psalm 90:9-12
Big Idea: You’re not ready to live until you’re ready to die…spiritually and otherwise.
Introduction
Death and taxes. It has been said they are the only sure things in this life. We’re not going to talk about taxes this morning. Given this is the Sunday after an election we’ve all heard enough about taxes and government and politicians! But we are talking about death. What a cheery subject! But here’s the truth:
You’re not ready to live until you’re ready to die. Are you ready?
The odds are very good that someday you’re going to die. Yes, there will be a generation of followers of Jesus who will be alive when Christ returns, but billions of people have been waiting thousands of years for that day and have all…died! People ask me all the time if I think such and such event is a sign that Jesus will return in our lifetime and my answer is always the same: we’re one day closer than we were yesterday.
If we set aside the statistically unlikely possibility we will be living when Christ returns, we must face the reality we will someday die. Perhaps the most difficult thing is we don’t know when. We all have an unknown expiration date!
The media reminds us constantly how our death could come suddenly. We might die of old age like my dear friend Harold whose life we celebrated yesterday, but we could die this morning unexpectedly as dozens did last Sunday morning in Texas. Jesus told a fantastic parable in Luke 12:
And he told them this parable: “The ground of a certain rich man yielded an abundant harvest. He thought to himself, ‘What shall I do? I have no place to store my crops.’ (Luke 12:16-17)
“Then he said, ‘This is what I’ll do. I will tear down my barns and build bigger ones, and there I will store my surplus grain. And I’ll say to myself, “You have plenty of grain laid up for many years. Take life easy; eat, drink and be merry.” ’ (Luke 12:18-19)
But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?’ (Luke 12:20)
Today is the first day of the rest of your life…but it could also be the last day of your life!
We’re talking today about matters of life and death. I promise there is some encouragement at the end, but it’s so important we are prepared to die. Most of you are aware of the large number of funerals we’ve already done this year, some very unexpected. Some were ready, others not so much.
Here’s a rather poignant photo taken not long ago with two of our sisters who are now in the presence of Almighty God.
All our days pass away under your wrath;
we finish our years with a moan.
Our days may come to seventy years,
or eighty, if our strength endures;
yet the best of them are but trouble and sorrow,
for they quickly pass, and we fly away.
If only we knew the power of your anger!
Your wrath is as great as the fear that is your due.
Teach us to number our days,
that we may gain a heart of wisdom. (Psalms 90:9-12)
You’re not ready to live until you’re ready to die.
I know many of you are thinking, “I’m ready. I can’t wait to die and meet Jesus!” But what about those who are left behind? What will your loved ones experience as they grieve your loss? A blessed inheritance? Wishes for your funeral? Keepsake letters of wisdom? Or a mess?
Financial Preparation
When people think of preparing for their death, the first thing they usually think about is their…will. Do you have one? Or do you have a Revocable Living Trust, which has additional benefits? Are beneficiaries named on your assets? What about passwords? Is there a place people can access your login information for bank accounts, bills, and other websites? Is there a list of your assets, including insurance policies, properties, and investments? Proverbs says
A good person leaves an inheritance for their children’s children, but a sinner’s wealth is stored up for the righteous. (Proverbs 13:22)
My dad died several years ago of Alzheimer’s. We had years to prepare…and mom did. His transition to the next life was smooth and easy.
My mother-in-law also died several years ago…unexpectedly. When we took her to the hospital, we never imagined she would never come home. She had assets without beneficiaries, an under-water apartment, boxes of papers, and we spent needless time and money in probate court. It was a stressful mess.
If you died today, will your loved ones be grateful or grumbling about your estate? I’m not merely saying leave millions of dollars behind for your kids. Even if your assets are modest, are they organized? Are your plans written in a legal document? Will your possessions easily transfer? I might add have you considered charities in your directives as well as individuals? Do you have a “cheat sheet” with passwords for those left behind to settle your affairs? Are your financial wishes clear?
Medical Preparation
Preparation for death does not always involve death itself. Do you have a living will? A health care power of attorney? Who will make medical decisions if you are unable to do so?
Recently a member of our church family was knocking at death’s door. When his medical records were examined, he listed First Alliance Church as next of kin! Needless to say, the phone call to the church office was quite challenging. Fortunately, he survived and signed papers designating a person to make decisions should he again be incapacitated.
It is imperative that you communicate with loved ones your wishes regarding medical care, especially in regard to prolonging your life. Don’t burden others with decisions you can make today.
Are your medical wishes clear?
Funeral Preparation
Financial and medical preparation are vitally important. Communicating your desires need not be complicated, but must be done…before it’s too late
What about your body? Do you want to be buried? Cremated? A funeral or memorial service? Who do you want to officiate your ceremony? Do you have special songs you want sung, a favorite Bible passage read? Some of us will have months to consider such decisions, but there may be no better time than the present to sketch out some ideas of how you want to be remembered. Are your funeral wishes clear?
Legacy
Obviously, none of us has complete control over how we will be remembered. Even if we plan the most memorable funeral, we will have no say in how others remember us once we’re gone.
The most important thing you can pass down to your loved ones is not money or even a well-planned memorial service but your legacy, your story, your wisdom, your life. I’ve attended countless funerals and the legacy of the deceased is always apparent.
What do you want on your tombstone? He worked hard and made a lot of money? She was devoted to her hobbies and loved to shop? They generously invested their lives in the next generation, mentoring and tutoring? Their life resembled Jesus and they helped others to know Christ, too?
This is where things get personal in a hurry. Your legacy will not be established during your final breaths. It is established now, today, on an ordinary day, over the course of ordinary days, months, years, decades.
While you’re at it, write notes to your loved ones. Videotape stories of your childhood. Preserve your memories for future generations.
What will people say at your funeral?
Are You Ready?
We’ve talked about ensuring your loved ones are ready for your death, but what about you? You’re not ready to live until you’re ready to die. Are you ready? I know many of you are, but many of you are not. You hope you’ll make it to heaven when you die, but are you sure? How can you know for sure?
First, contrary to popular belief, we don’t get to heaven by being good…because God’s standard is perfection. If you’re not perfect, you’re out of luck! Going to church and giving money to the poor, and volunteering at Cherry Street Mission will not erase the sins you’ve committed…those sins we’ve all committed. The book of Romans is quite clear:
for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, (Romans 3:23)
You, me, Billy Graham, we’ve all sinned and fall short of God’s glory, His perfection. On our own, we deserve eternal punishment for our sins, our mistakes, our rebellion against the Almighty. But this is where Jesus comes in. People often take Romans 3:23 out of context, ignoring the fact it completes a sentence…and ends with a comma! Here’s the complete sentence.
This righteousness is given through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference between Jew and Gentile, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. (Romans 3:22-24)
What this means, simply, is Jesus came, lived, and died to pay for our sins. The next verses say
God presented Christ as a sacrifice of atonement, through the shedding of his blood—to be received by faith. He did this to demonstrate his righteousness, because in his forbearance he had left the sins committed beforehand unpunished—he did it to demonstrate his righteousness at the present time, so as to be just and the one who justifies those who have faith in Jesus. (Romans 3:25-26)
Some translations use this word “propitiation,” a word meaning appeasement or satisfaction. Throughout history, people have tried to appease God by offering gifts, sacrifices, and doing certain practices. The problem is God requires perfection, and Jesus lived a perfect life so his death on the cross was able to satisfy, appease, and wash away our sins.
This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. (1 John 4:10, NIV)
Another translation uses that word “propitiation.”
In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. (1 John 4:10, ESV)
The difference between Christianity and other religions is how they are spelled. Religion is spelled D-O…what we do to appease God. Our faith can be spelled D-O-N-E…it’s about what Jesus has done on the cross. You can’t earn it. You can’t buy it. You can only accept it as a gift of grace…unmerited favor.
You may wonder what you have to do. Simple: surrender.
We often look at Ephesians 2:8-9 because it’s such a powerful text:
For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast. (Ephesians 2:8-9)
Grace is a gift…the greatest gift.
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. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. (John 3:16-17)
You’re not ready to live until you’re ready to die. Are you ready?
It my hope and prayer that you surrender your life to Jesus today if you haven’t already. He died for you. He gave everything he had to show God’s love. He wants to be your Savior—forgiving you of all of your sins—and LORD—becoming the leader of your life. It’s not that he wants to manipulate you, God simply loves you and wants what’s best for you. The Bible shows us how to live the most exciting, satisfying life imaginable…while preparing us for the next life.
Death is morbid to many, yet for followers of Jesus it can be an anticipated reunion with our Creator.
Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his faithful servants. (Psalms 116:15)
Paul wrote to a church…
For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. (Philippians 1:21)
So What?
Get your finances in order: will, passwords
Get your medical directives in order: living will, power of attorney
Get your funeral wishes in order
Get your spiritual life in order: do you know Jesus or just about him?
A message like this can be a downer, but it need not be depressing. Actually, planning for your death can be a tremendous blessing to your loved ones and even to you. As followers of Jesus, we have hope that we truly are going to a better place. Jesus said
“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. (John 14:1-3)
Heaven is where Jesus is, and those who know Jesus as LORD will be with him…forever!
"We're afraid to die because we've actually been afraid to live." - Erwin McManus
"The only proof of life after death is life before death." - Erwin McManus
Now go live like you’re dying…because you are!
Resources:
Financial Planning
www.chamberlain-law.net
www.elderlawanswers.com/
Medical Planning
Advanced Directives Packet (Ohio)
http://medicaid.ohio.gov/
www.medicare.gov/
https://www.cmalliance.org/about/beliefs/perspectives/sanctity-of-life
Funeral Planning
www.walkerfuneralhomes.com/plan-ahead/overview
www.homesteaderslife.com/funeral-planning
www.talkofalifetime.org/
www.nfda.org/for-the-public
www.cremationassociation.org/?page=Consumers
www.efuneral.com/
You can listen to this message and others at the First Alliance Church podcast here.
Psalm 90:9-12
Big Idea: You’re not ready to live until you’re ready to die…spiritually and otherwise.
Introduction
Death and taxes. It has been said they are the only sure things in this life. We’re not going to talk about taxes this morning. Given this is the Sunday after an election we’ve all heard enough about taxes and government and politicians! But we are talking about death. What a cheery subject! But here’s the truth:
You’re not ready to live until you’re ready to die. Are you ready?
The odds are very good that someday you’re going to die. Yes, there will be a generation of followers of Jesus who will be alive when Christ returns, but billions of people have been waiting thousands of years for that day and have all…died! People ask me all the time if I think such and such event is a sign that Jesus will return in our lifetime and my answer is always the same: we’re one day closer than we were yesterday.
If we set aside the statistically unlikely possibility we will be living when Christ returns, we must face the reality we will someday die. Perhaps the most difficult thing is we don’t know when. We all have an unknown expiration date!
The media reminds us constantly how our death could come suddenly. We might die of old age like my dear friend Harold whose life we celebrated yesterday, but we could die this morning unexpectedly as dozens did last Sunday morning in Texas. Jesus told a fantastic parable in Luke 12:
And he told them this parable: “The ground of a certain rich man yielded an abundant harvest. He thought to himself, ‘What shall I do? I have no place to store my crops.’ (Luke 12:16-17)
“Then he said, ‘This is what I’ll do. I will tear down my barns and build bigger ones, and there I will store my surplus grain. And I’ll say to myself, “You have plenty of grain laid up for many years. Take life easy; eat, drink and be merry.” ’ (Luke 12:18-19)
But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?’ (Luke 12:20)
Today is the first day of the rest of your life…but it could also be the last day of your life!
We’re talking today about matters of life and death. I promise there is some encouragement at the end, but it’s so important we are prepared to die. Most of you are aware of the large number of funerals we’ve already done this year, some very unexpected. Some were ready, others not so much.
Here’s a rather poignant photo taken not long ago with two of our sisters who are now in the presence of Almighty God.
All our days pass away under your wrath;
we finish our years with a moan.
Our days may come to seventy years,
or eighty, if our strength endures;
yet the best of them are but trouble and sorrow,
for they quickly pass, and we fly away.
If only we knew the power of your anger!
Your wrath is as great as the fear that is your due.
Teach us to number our days,
that we may gain a heart of wisdom. (Psalms 90:9-12)
You’re not ready to live until you’re ready to die.
I know many of you are thinking, “I’m ready. I can’t wait to die and meet Jesus!” But what about those who are left behind? What will your loved ones experience as they grieve your loss? A blessed inheritance? Wishes for your funeral? Keepsake letters of wisdom? Or a mess?
Financial Preparation
When people think of preparing for their death, the first thing they usually think about is their…will. Do you have one? Or do you have a Revocable Living Trust, which has additional benefits? Are beneficiaries named on your assets? What about passwords? Is there a place people can access your login information for bank accounts, bills, and other websites? Is there a list of your assets, including insurance policies, properties, and investments? Proverbs says
A good person leaves an inheritance for their children’s children, but a sinner’s wealth is stored up for the righteous. (Proverbs 13:22)
My dad died several years ago of Alzheimer’s. We had years to prepare…and mom did. His transition to the next life was smooth and easy.
My mother-in-law also died several years ago…unexpectedly. When we took her to the hospital, we never imagined she would never come home. She had assets without beneficiaries, an under-water apartment, boxes of papers, and we spent needless time and money in probate court. It was a stressful mess.
If you died today, will your loved ones be grateful or grumbling about your estate? I’m not merely saying leave millions of dollars behind for your kids. Even if your assets are modest, are they organized? Are your plans written in a legal document? Will your possessions easily transfer? I might add have you considered charities in your directives as well as individuals? Do you have a “cheat sheet” with passwords for those left behind to settle your affairs? Are your financial wishes clear?
Medical Preparation
Preparation for death does not always involve death itself. Do you have a living will? A health care power of attorney? Who will make medical decisions if you are unable to do so?
Recently a member of our church family was knocking at death’s door. When his medical records were examined, he listed First Alliance Church as next of kin! Needless to say, the phone call to the church office was quite challenging. Fortunately, he survived and signed papers designating a person to make decisions should he again be incapacitated.
It is imperative that you communicate with loved ones your wishes regarding medical care, especially in regard to prolonging your life. Don’t burden others with decisions you can make today.
Are your medical wishes clear?
Funeral Preparation
Financial and medical preparation are vitally important. Communicating your desires need not be complicated, but must be done…before it’s too late
What about your body? Do you want to be buried? Cremated? A funeral or memorial service? Who do you want to officiate your ceremony? Do you have special songs you want sung, a favorite Bible passage read? Some of us will have months to consider such decisions, but there may be no better time than the present to sketch out some ideas of how you want to be remembered. Are your funeral wishes clear?
Legacy
Obviously, none of us has complete control over how we will be remembered. Even if we plan the most memorable funeral, we will have no say in how others remember us once we’re gone.
The most important thing you can pass down to your loved ones is not money or even a well-planned memorial service but your legacy, your story, your wisdom, your life. I’ve attended countless funerals and the legacy of the deceased is always apparent.
What do you want on your tombstone? He worked hard and made a lot of money? She was devoted to her hobbies and loved to shop? They generously invested their lives in the next generation, mentoring and tutoring? Their life resembled Jesus and they helped others to know Christ, too?
This is where things get personal in a hurry. Your legacy will not be established during your final breaths. It is established now, today, on an ordinary day, over the course of ordinary days, months, years, decades.
While you’re at it, write notes to your loved ones. Videotape stories of your childhood. Preserve your memories for future generations.
What will people say at your funeral?
Are You Ready?
We’ve talked about ensuring your loved ones are ready for your death, but what about you? You’re not ready to live until you’re ready to die. Are you ready? I know many of you are, but many of you are not. You hope you’ll make it to heaven when you die, but are you sure? How can you know for sure?
First, contrary to popular belief, we don’t get to heaven by being good…because God’s standard is perfection. If you’re not perfect, you’re out of luck! Going to church and giving money to the poor, and volunteering at Cherry Street Mission will not erase the sins you’ve committed…those sins we’ve all committed. The book of Romans is quite clear:
for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, (Romans 3:23)
You, me, Billy Graham, we’ve all sinned and fall short of God’s glory, His perfection. On our own, we deserve eternal punishment for our sins, our mistakes, our rebellion against the Almighty. But this is where Jesus comes in. People often take Romans 3:23 out of context, ignoring the fact it completes a sentence…and ends with a comma! Here’s the complete sentence.
This righteousness is given through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference between Jew and Gentile, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. (Romans 3:22-24)
What this means, simply, is Jesus came, lived, and died to pay for our sins. The next verses say
God presented Christ as a sacrifice of atonement, through the shedding of his blood—to be received by faith. He did this to demonstrate his righteousness, because in his forbearance he had left the sins committed beforehand unpunished—he did it to demonstrate his righteousness at the present time, so as to be just and the one who justifies those who have faith in Jesus. (Romans 3:25-26)
Some translations use this word “propitiation,” a word meaning appeasement or satisfaction. Throughout history, people have tried to appease God by offering gifts, sacrifices, and doing certain practices. The problem is God requires perfection, and Jesus lived a perfect life so his death on the cross was able to satisfy, appease, and wash away our sins.
This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. (1 John 4:10, NIV)
Another translation uses that word “propitiation.”
In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. (1 John 4:10, ESV)
The difference between Christianity and other religions is how they are spelled. Religion is spelled D-O…what we do to appease God. Our faith can be spelled D-O-N-E…it’s about what Jesus has done on the cross. You can’t earn it. You can’t buy it. You can only accept it as a gift of grace…unmerited favor.
You may wonder what you have to do. Simple: surrender.
We often look at Ephesians 2:8-9 because it’s such a powerful text:
For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast. (Ephesians 2:8-9)
Grace is a gift…the greatest gift.
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. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. (John 3:16-17)
You’re not ready to live until you’re ready to die. Are you ready?
It my hope and prayer that you surrender your life to Jesus today if you haven’t already. He died for you. He gave everything he had to show God’s love. He wants to be your Savior—forgiving you of all of your sins—and LORD—becoming the leader of your life. It’s not that he wants to manipulate you, God simply loves you and wants what’s best for you. The Bible shows us how to live the most exciting, satisfying life imaginable…while preparing us for the next life.
Death is morbid to many, yet for followers of Jesus it can be an anticipated reunion with our Creator.
Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his faithful servants. (Psalms 116:15)
Paul wrote to a church…
For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. (Philippians 1:21)
So What?
Get your finances in order: will, passwords
Get your medical directives in order: living will, power of attorney
Get your funeral wishes in order
Get your spiritual life in order: do you know Jesus or just about him?
A message like this can be a downer, but it need not be depressing. Actually, planning for your death can be a tremendous blessing to your loved ones and even to you. As followers of Jesus, we have hope that we truly are going to a better place. Jesus said
“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. (John 14:1-3)
Heaven is where Jesus is, and those who know Jesus as LORD will be with him…forever!
"We're afraid to die because we've actually been afraid to live." - Erwin McManus
"The only proof of life after death is life before death." - Erwin McManus
Now go live like you’re dying…because you are!
Resources:
Financial Planning
www.chamberlain-law.net
www.elderlawanswers.com/
Medical Planning
Advanced Directives Packet (Ohio)
http://medicaid.ohio.gov/
www.medicare.gov/
https://www.cmalliance.org/about/beliefs/perspectives/sanctity-of-life
Funeral Planning
www.walkerfuneralhomes.com/plan-ahead/overview
www.homesteaderslife.com/funeral-planning
www.talkofalifetime.org/
www.nfda.org/for-the-public
www.cremationassociation.org/?page=Consumers
www.efuneral.com/