Inheritance

What is the inheritance of the saints, those made holy by God? The inheritance of the saints is the culmination of all God’s plans, New Jerusalem and a new earth where God and humanity can live together, making all our earthly time of testing pale into insignificance, “and He will wipe away every tear from their eyes; and there will no longer be any death; there will no longer be any mourning, or crying, or pain” (Revelation 21:4 NASB)

It’s a Ghost

Mastering Your Fears
and Phobias

As Jesus approached the disciples’ boat in the dark of night by walking on the water, they cried out, “It’s a ghost!” (Matthew 14:22-33) They were terrified. How often do we object in fear as Jesus approaches? Some Christians find comfort in the law, but as Jesus approaches they fear his grace. Grace can be a fearful thing. Others find comfort in their Talmuds, Disciplines and Canon Laws but as Jesus comes near, they fear his teachings which often contradict their ideas. Jesus’ teachings can be fearful so we bury them in our traditions. Fear is one thing that can keep us out of heaven (Revelation 21:7-9). Jesus tells us not to fear his presence. Let us then also take action. Like Peter, our steps may be faltering, but at least he took steps instead of staying put.

Star Trek Theology

The star ship Enterprise landed on a holiday planet for rest and relaxation. The crew could choose any kind of vacation they wanted, from safari to some other kind of adventure. Shockingly, crew members were dying off one by one, during their dream vacation. Captain Kirk confronted the tour guide and demanded that he stop killing the crew. The man then reassured him that all was in order, and showed the captain to a waiting room where the crew were all safe and sound. The episode answered for me the question of why God allows pain and suffering. We cause our own problems, but God has a plan. His purpose involves a happy end where there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain (Revelation 21:4). If there is no more mourning, then there must be a time when there is no more reason for it.