Embracing Death as a New Beginning
For Christians, death is not an end, but a new beginning. It’s a transition from life on earth to eternal life with God. As I reflect on my own mortality, I realize that my death-day will actually be a birthday – the third in line.
My Three Birthdays
My first birthday was when I was born into this physical world. My second birthday was when I came to know God’s salvation and Christ’s love for me. And my third birthday will be when I pass from this life to eternal life.
A New Gift of Life
Death is often seen as an exit, a way out of the light we love into darkness. But for Christians, death is an entrance, a way leading from twilight to the sunshine of seeing our God. As the Bible says, “To depart and be with Christ… is far better” (Philippians 1:23).
The Promise of Baptism
My baptism is a reminder that death will not end my existence or my joy. It’s an acted promise from God that a new gift of life will override the death sentence. Through baptism, I’ve been given a new life, and I can depend on God’s active grace to bring me home.
The Hope of Eternal Life
As I look forward to my third birthday, I’m filled with hope and anticipation. I know that death is not the end, but a new beginning. And I’m grateful for the promise of eternal life with God.
Finding Comfort in God’s Word
If you’re facing the end of life, either personally or with a loved one, I encourage you to find comfort in God’s word. Read passages like Revelation 7:15-17, which describes the joy and peace that awaits us in heaven.
Remembering J.I. Packer
As we remember the life of J.I. Packer, we’re reminded of his profound writing ministry and his legacy of faithful service to the church. His words continue to inspire and comfort us, even in the face of death.
Death as a Stage of Salvation
Death often brings reality to light, revealing our true hopes and fears. But for Christians, death is not just an end, but a stage of salvation. It’s a transition to eternal life, where we’ll experience the fullness of God’s love and joy.
Choosing Life
May we turn from the greatest of wickednesses, the placing of any created thing in the place of the Creator. May we get our feet out of the paths of death and choose life, so that we may live.
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