Resurrection Hope When Life Falls Apart

I experienced something this week, I've never experienced before.  A member of our staff died.  She went to be with Jesus.  Just a few short months ago, one of our administrative assistants at church went to the doctor, and discovered she had a brain tumor.  For the next few months she fought a valiant battle with cancer.  Her world, and her family's world was turned upside down.  Our staff is still numb from it all.  She never saw this coming.  Nor did her family.  Nor did we.  My wife and I first met this couple in a small group almost four years ago.  They were a middle aged couple with a great life and a great future.

Early this week, this wonderful servant of the Lord went to be with Jesus.  We rejoice in what she is now experiencing, but our hearts ache for her husband and three grown sons.  In addition, our team has suffered loss, and our church will miss her greatly.  As you read this, pray that God's grace and love will be poured out on this family.

Tomorrow I will lead the celebration service for her life.  It will be profoundly painful for her family and friends, and our church will never quite be the same.  In the midst of it all we have resurrection hope.  We are not as those who have no hope.  In fact, our hope is steadfast and sure!  (See Hebrews 6:19-20).

How do you keep the fire burning when your world is falling apart?  Cling to the one who never changes.  Cling to Jesus.  And when your grip grows weak and you are not sure you can even face another day, remember he is the one holding on to you.  'For He Himself has said, I will never leave you or forsake you.'  Hebrews 13:5b.  So hold on to His word.  Trust His heart.  He is there.

I leave you with Isaiah 41:10, which has long been one of my favorite verse.  'Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God.  I will strengthen you; I will help you; I will hold on to you with My righteous right hand.'

A Shelter in the Storm

I have spent time with many people lately who seem to be going through a storm.  The truth is we all are either in one, coming out of one, or headed into one.  God's promise is this:  "I will be with you when you pass through the waters, and when you pass through the rivers, they will not overwhelm you.  You will not be scorched when you walk through the fire, and the flame will not burn you."  Isaiah 43:2.

I am so thankful for the word of God.  We are constantly reminded of His presence and power in us and around us.  Psalm 119:114 says "You are my shelter and my shield; I put my hope in Your word."  In the past week I've been with people going through all types of struggles.  I have been reminded that Jesus is the shelter in the storm.

Whatever storm you are facing or going through, do not abandon the Lord.  He is with you in the storm.  He will never abandon you.  He will walk you through the storm.  He will be glorified.  He cares for you.  Trust Him.  Completely.  The storm will pass.  Another one will come.  He remains the same.

prayerfully,
Bruce

Vacation!

When it comes to keeping the fire burning, we all need rest.  The Bible tells us in Mark 6:31, ‘He said to them, “Come away by yourselves to a remote place and rest a while.”  For many people were coming and going, and they did not even have time to eat.’  It has been said that the person who burns the candle at both ends is not as smart as he thinks he is.  It seems that in this world people either tend to be workaholics or lazy.  Few find the appropriate balance of a healthy life.  I can even recall those who would say, ‘I would rather burn out than rust out!’  The problem with that is that either way – you are out! 

I’ve preached a lot of funerals in my life and ministry.  I’ve watched families gather and mourn not only the loss of a loved one but sometimes also audibly reflect on the fact that it is too bad it takes a death to get families together.  That has made an impact on me.  I have found myself encouraging families not to wait until funerals to gather together.  Make memories now.  Cherish the present and give thanks for all God has done and is doing. 

Recently, I experienced the joy of our entire family gathering for vacation.  We are in that in-between stage.  The oldest of our children is married.  In fact the oldest two are out of college and both getting on with their lives.  The third will be a senior in college and we have one in middle school.  Our four children and our son-in-law are a huge blessing from the Lord.  For years we have been gathering at an island in North Carolina for vacation.  It’s been every year since 1995.  As the kids got older, there were times that one or the other could not join us. 

This year we made an effort to all be there and the reward was amazing.  I’m so thankful for a family that loves the Lord and loves each other.  We are each different, but all very much the same.  We help each other be stronger.  We learn from each other.  We listen to each other.  We grow together.  Whether it was time at the beach, time together around a meal, time of worship at the chapel, time at the golf course, watching a movie, or putting a puzzle together, moments and conversations were shared that will last yet another year.  At times it was a walk together with a family member, or a bike ride.  I cherished every minute.

So here’s the deal.  We need to be diligent in our life, ministry and our work.  We also need to know how to gather for times of renewal, refreshing and rest.  If you don’t the fire will go out and you will need a restart which isn’t always easy.  Don’t lose hope.  Make some plans now for 2012.  It will be here sooner than you know it.  A close friend of mine asked me about vacation as soon as we got back.  He then asked me, so what are your plans for your next vacation?  That’s what good friends do.  They remind you to get on the calendar, next year’s plan.  Ours is already on the calendar.  I encourage you to do the same. 

Next year we will have yet another family member with us, our first grandchild!  That baby was with us this year – we just haven’t met the child yet!!!  The journey continues.  It’s a good journey, and I am grateful. 

Prayerfully,

Bruce