“This is how we know that we live in him and he in us: He has given us of his Spirit. 14 And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent his Son to be the Savior of the world. 15 If anyone acknowledges that Jesus is the Son of God, God lives in them and they in God.16 And so we know and rely on the love God has for us.” 1 John 4.13-16
This week, my father, aged 85, went to be with the Lord. Already this morning, I’ve referred several times to “my parents.” But it’s not plural anymore; I have a single living parent. Yet, I will always carry the memory, encouragement, and equipping from both parents. Although my dad is no longer with us, his memory lives on in me.
I share this because life is a gift, and we have life in Christ. My dad no longer has a physical life, but now it is spiritual. He who loved Christ now reigns with Him in heaven. John says, “If anyone acknowledges that Jesus is the Son of God, God lives in them and they in God.” My dad made this acknowledgment, and now he has eternal life with Christ.
This week was also the Fourth of July, a day marking the celebration of the birth of our nation 249 years ago. Just as our nation has given us freedom through the many who died to make it so, Christ has given us freedom to live, move, and have our being. Life in Christ is beautiful, comprehensive, and substantial. It is of and from the Lord. But we only get life through Jesus. We might have a temporary life in this earthly body, but eternal life is offered to all who believe. And that life leads to freedom from fear, death, sickness, and sin.
So, this week, on my dad’s reception into heaven, I thank God for everlasting life and for the freedom Jesus has given us through His suffering, death, and resurrection.
Thanks be to God, and welcome to Heaven, Dad.
“O Lord God, You are good, and Your steadfast love endures always. When we are lonely, You attend to our needs. When we are suffering, You offer support. When we face struggles, wars, and all kinds of madness, You restore us to health. Come now, Lord Jesus. Fall upon us. Fill us with Your Spirit. For You are good, and Your love endures forever.” Amen