"The Weekly Word"

---

What must I do to inherit eternal life? Mark 10:17

          So how many of us want to know what’s next in life? We all do. We want to be secure in our knowledge in some way we’re aware of the journey. How things are going to happen. And that works except for one particular thing. The process of death. No matter how we slice it, its completion is an individual journey.

          And to me, that’s why we fear it, even Christians. It’s not the idea we’re going to die, it’s the process of doing so. How’s it going to happen, what are we going to experience as it happens? Will we even realize what’s happening as the transition is taking place? Will anyone be with us as we transition? Now friends, I hate to isolate this morning on such a macabre or somber topic, yet to me, it’s one we shy away from so often because we simply have no control over it. Yes, we can all take steps to extend our earthly lives, but in the end, God will do with us what he’s going to do, when he's going to do it.

          So, with all this, then we join Jesus in his ministry. And here’s a short question someone running up to him asks. What must I do to inherit eternal life? And really, it’s a question we all ask. How can life continue? Is there a way it’ll never stop?

          Sadly, many say, I have it so good now, I wouldn’t want things to end. And then there’s the other way, many say, Lord, I don’t know what I’m doing here anymore, whenever you’re ready, take me please, I’m ready.

          Neither mentality friends are the way we’re supposed to go. Our Lord somehow is blessing us along the journey. What must we do to inherit the kingdom of God? What does Jesus say in essence, accept him, keep living, keep striving for God, IN whatever state you are at emotionally, always know God through Jesus Christ is somehow guiding you, blessing you, leading you, and never leaving you!

          What must we do to inherit life everlasting, to keep going? We must keep thanking God for everything he continues to do for us and through us in life, and yes, even unto death, even as our transition occurs, however and whenever that happens.

          Rest assured, one minute we could be here, and the next second gone. And that’s not something to say, how horrible, or to be frightened about. It’s something to say, Lord, thank you for every single moment, each gifted second, I have to be on this earth and to experience your creation. And when I’m done per your decision, I will continue to give thanks for all you’re doing for me?

          So, what must we all do to keep living forever? Always praise God, always thank him. And most of all, love others and him while we can. And then as we transition, we’ll receive Jesus’ invitation to come and always live, and never die!

To God be the glory

Pastor Brandon