The Good News and the Bad News

I enjoy reading the news each day but have to admit sometimes it can be a bit of a downer when you see played out the sinfulness of men.  Recently there have been some awful tragedies and loss of life in Norway purportedly by another mad man.  But, even amongst the doom and gloom, for the Christian there is always something positive we can draw from. Aren’t you glad you KNOW where you are headed should tragedy befall you? 

Years ago, I stood  at the bedside of a dying uncle. He was known for his abrupt manner and brusque speaking. I had asked him if he knew where he was going when he died and he quickly remarked, “No ! And neither do you !!”   I said softly, “Oh but I do and you can too !”  I quoted him 1 Jn.5:13 (a key verse in that book), “These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may KNOW that ye have eternal life and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God”.    Thankfully, he continued to listen then he believed and accepted Christ !!

But one of the “perks” of being born again is the assurance that no matter what life may bring your way you’re headed to heaven !     Life is all too short here.  James likened the unbelieving person’s life to that of a quickly withering flower in the heat of the scorching sirocco wind coming off the hot Israeli desert (James 1:10,11).  Its looks fine one moment and is in its prime then, “Bam !” – its gone !    Yes, life is fleeting here.   Accept Him if you haven’t already before it’s too late. If you have been saved, live for Him in such a way that others see Him in you so that your life draws others to this same assurance and peace.  That’s the type of life to live that’s the opposite of a mad man and means good news to God and others !!