Immortal

Do you realize that you are immortal until God calls you home?  We all have a predetermined time in which our life on earth will end.  Until that time we are immortal.  This reminder is invigorating!  It is the impetus to take risks.  (Not unnecessary ones, but taking risks for Jesus Christ).  -To not be afraid of the unknown.  Knowing full well that our lives are in the hands of the Lord.

"To live is Christ and to die is gain."  Philippians 1:21.  Paul reminds us that it's a win-win situation.  Living here on earth is a life sustained by Christ.  To die is even better because we will be with Him in eternity.  Sweet!

Have you made the decision to risk it all by accepting Jesus Christ as your personal Lord and Savior?  If not, say a prayer and invite Him into your life right now.  If you've already accepted Christ, choose to put your life on the line today (Luke 9:23) and live for Him.  No, it's not easy.  You may face persecution, embarrassment, or rejection.  Ultimately you may even face physical death in the name of Jesus.  But remember, until that day comes...we are immortal!

GrantJ   

Tiger

All this talk of Tiger's infidelity has me doing some thinking.  Yes, it is absolutely disgraceful what he has done to his family.  And yes, he will have to deal with the consequences of his actions.  As a golf fan, it is disappointing to hear.  BUT, I am not surprised.  I don't mean to say that I had prejudged his character and somehow saw it coming.  Rather, no one is above the power of sin.  Not billion dollar celebrities.  Not your blue-collar neighbor.  Not that homeless woman you see on your way to work.  We are all sinners.  To reiterate, I am not condoning Tiger's actions.  It just doesn't come as a surprise.  Think about it.  There are deep down sins in the past of you and me.  -Some that would be utterly humiliating to tell others about.

Here's the challenge.  Next time you see a picture of him flashed on TV or the newstand say a prayer for Elin, Tiger, and their marriage.

We are great sinners.  Christ is a great Savior.  "God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us."  Romans 5:8

GrantJ

Be Encouraged

Encouragement.  We all need it.  No matter who you are, an encouraging word can make all the difference.  The Christian walk is no different.  We need encouragement.  We need to be reminded that we will make it through those tough times.  I see encouragement as a Post-It note from God.  -A reminder of the future glory that awaits and expectancy on Him to work all things for good.  (Romans 8:28).  Don't give up.  Be encouraged.  God is good and He loves us so very much.

Encourage one another (1 Thessalonians 5:11)

GrantJ