Last week our preacher talked about the beginning of things. This week, he skipped to the end of time, and talked about the end of things we know. For us, this was very pertinent, as two of our very good friends have passed away with in a month. Both were very ready to go; they both knew the end was near for them.

    It is very comforting for those who are left behind, to know that they are safe with the Lord. But what about those acquaintances who don’t have this hope or confidence? They must think it is only wishful thinking for those who have this confidence. They hope with not much confidence, that maybe there is something in this, but that no-one can be sure until the time comes.

    It is a nice thought, that all man’s troubles come to an end when that time comes, but stop and think about it all for a minute. What makes them think that they will be happy among this large crowd that is all singing praises to the God of Heaven, when they wouldn’t be seen in a church while alive today? How would they be able to stand hearing all the worship being given to Someone Whose name they use as a swear word so carelessly now? And what makes them think they have a right to enter the home of One Who they have never met and don’t know?

    But it doesn’t have to be like this you know. It IS possible for anyone to get to know the God of Heaven in this life. But it involves having to humble oneself and to confess that we have been in the wrong, and deserve nothing from Him. God Himself came to earth in the Person of Jesus Christ and took man’s punishment on Himself so that it would be possible for man to fellowship with Him before that day of departure from this earth occurs. If we do this sincerely, we CAN be confident that we will enjoy the life to come, and feel at home there!!

The Bible tells us in 1 John 1:9 that “if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness”.