Things will get better
For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.
2 Corinthians 4:18b (NKJV)
As I’ve grown older I have, in idle moments, occasionally wondered how much time I have left. No doubt someone will tell me this is not a healthy thing to do but I’ve done it anyway. I once went onto one of those websites which purport to predict how long, on average, you will live. I won’t tell you what it said, but apparently I’m good for a few more years. At least in theory!
A famous movie actress recently said that she ‘intends to make movies forever.’ As she is now aged 86, it will be interesting to see how that pans out. Perhaps a case of over-optimism.
Yet for those of us who have put our trust in Jesus Christ, we have an absolute promise: no matter what our present circumstances may be, we will inherit an immortal body and eternal life (1 Corinthians 15:54). It will surely be life of a quality never truly experienced in this present earthly body, full of joy, peace and unsurpassed energy –
Worry? I don’t remember that.
Tears? What were they?
Boredom? Come off it!
We’ll have an infinite God of love and laughter to draw closer and closer to, for ever and ever. We’ll get to participate in His exciting plans. Will our movie star be making movies forever? I’m not sure about that. It seems unlikely, but you never know. I’m sure we’ll be in for some surprises. One thing’s for sure, if it does happen, they’ll be the best movies you ever saw!
So how much time do I have left? Forever! Forever to eat and drink at my Father’s table. Wonderful! Am I the only one invited to enjoy that? Of course not. The invitation is to everyone.The love, sacrifice and generosity of Jesus Christ makes it all possible. Don’t be downhearted by the dismal time you may be going through right now. Cling firmly to Jesus and things will get better. Much better. Forever.
Prayer
Father, it’s a dark time for many. Please encourage each of us and open the eyes of those who haven’t yet understood the eternal joys Jesus has made possible for them. Amen
Study by Doug Bass
About the writer:
Doug Bass is a member of Grace Communion International, Exeter.
Local congregation:
GCI Exeter
America Hall
De La Rue Way
Pinhoe
Exeter
EX4 8PX
Visitors welcome but please ring first as we do sometimes change our venue.
Meeting time:
Saturday 11:00am
Local congregational contact:
John Armstrong
Email: exeter@gracecom.church
Word of Life contact:
wordoflife@gracecom.church