Something that’ll last for ever… – 19 October 2007

We have such a short time on this earth (from the perspective of eternity), yet we can easily fall into the trap of focusing purely on the things of this world. You may have heard it said that there are “no pockets in a shroud” or that you can’t “take it with you when you die”. For this reason, our focus should be on living our lives on the basis of something that’ll last for ever.

"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. Matthew 6: 19-20 [NIV]

Jesus left no children behind, no fortune to be inherited, no works of art. When he was crucified, even the clothes he was wearing were divided up by his guards. Yet he left behind a permanent legacy. His teachings, miracles, example and Spirit remain and have the same relevance and immediacy as they had 2000 years ago. Truly, Jesus is alive!

Following Jesus is not easy – Jesus did not go with the flow, he often went down the difficult path and the dangerous route to reach his destination. We are called to do the same:

"Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it. Matthew 7:13-14 [NIV]

As we build our lives, we must choose whether to build on firm foundations of rock, or on the shifting sand that will be washed away by the wind and the waves. The prize is worth the effort.

Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. 1 Cor. 9:25 [NIV]

Lord, help us to find the narrow gate. Amen