School shootings, volcanic eruptions, flooding, earthquakes, tornadoes, crime, moral decay, aging bodies, death…how does a person keep looking forward to the future?  And furthermore, can one even be assured of the future?  All the trouble that is going on in this wonderful gift called “life” is the result of a fallen world, in mankind and in nature itself.  Things today are not as God intended.  But, Jesus promised in His Word that He is coming back, and when, not if, He does He will make ALL things new - a new glorified body (cf. 1 Corinthians 15: 42-49) and a new heaven and a new earth in which to dwell (cf. 2 Peter 3:13).  So, in answer to my question, “yes,” we can look forward to the future, because we do have a future.  Therefore, because of this fact, the Bible says that in the meantime we are to live with purpose, and yes continue to set goals and make plans, but most importantly - continue to “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” (cf. 2 Peter 3:18)

Are you looking forward?  Are you living with purpose?  You can by His grace!  Now, “to Him be the glory both now and forever. Amen!”

In His Service,

Pastor Rod