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Goal and Gift
In the Word
But God will redeem my life from the grave; he will surely take me to himself (Psalm 49:15).
Of the Word
“We’ve done all we can do. We’ll disconnect life support in the morning.” The doctor’s quiet words verified what the family already knew. Their loved one’s earthly life would end in a matter of hours. But because Jesus died and rose for their loved one, heavenly life would begin. Their tears of sorrow over losing him were mixed with the joy of knowing that they would someday join him in heaven.
Jesus said, “Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. In my Father’s house are many rooms … I am going there to prepare a place for you” (John 14:1–2).
Because of sin, … death is at work in us … (2 Corinthians 4:12a). But for the Christian the resurrection is the doorway to eternity. Fear of death is common, for it is human to fear the unknown. However, no Christian need fear death because God promises, “Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life” (Revelation 2:10b).
Walking with my Lord
Dear Lord, when death draws near — whether for my loved ones or for me — help me to cling to Your promises. Through Your gift of faith in Christ Jesus, I know that heaven is mine. In His name I pray. Amen.
Mustard Seed: Comfort from the Psalms. Authors: Marcia Gomulka & Myrna Lou Meyer. 6/30 ©2009 Lutheran Women’s Missionary League, 801 Seminary Place Ste. L010, St. Louis, MO 63105. www.lwml.org
Unless otherwise indicated, Scripture quotations were taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. All rights reserved worldwide.
