With God there is always hope

Death marks the end of all hope if one only lived for this life. This challenging truth is the basis for Jesus’ words to His disciples in Matthew 6:19-21: “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.  For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” If we solely cherish and are passionate about our earthly possession, then all our concentration will be on earth alone. However, when death takes us under its veil, we will be stripped of all our earthly possessions. With Jesus, hopelessness is turned into hope.

Death is an intruder in the garden of life; a result of our choice to disobey the God of life. We missed the mark and therefore became separated from the life of God (Eph. 4:18) and without hope. Unaware of what lies beyond the grave, we walk blindfolded, groping in darkness. No wonder that fortune tellers make a fortune off our desire to know the future.

Jesus started His public service by preaching that the Kingdom of God has come. Among other things it meant that the eternal had invaded the historical.  The transcendent was now immanent. Accordingly, John states, “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us” (John 1:14). Eternal life, as well, begins now in relationship with God.

We will have a glorified body in resurrection. Therefore, we do not despise our material body knowing that matter is not evil. God created matter and said, “It is good” (Gen. 1:4,10,12,18,21,25,31). While we sojourn on earth we work for transformation. Our actions must promote justice, truthfulness and peace.  Remember we are co-workers with God, and with God there is always hope.