Don't Be Afraid

Our church is focusing on living a Purpose Filled Easter as we prepare over the next 40 days to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus in a special way on Easter Sunday. We have encouraged all of our members to read the book, The Purpose Driven Life.

I love the eternal focus that is emphasized on day 4, which is entitled, Made to Last Forever. Rick Warren, the author writes, “Just as the nine months you spent in your mother’s womb were not an end in themselves but preparation for life, so this life is preparation for the next. If you have a relationship with God through Jesus, you don’t need to fear death. It is the door to eternity. … Rather than being the end of your life, it will be your birthday into eternal life.” (Page 39-40; The Purpose Driven Life).

I love that thought of physical death being our birthday into heaven! This is a reminder for the follower of Christ to not be afraid of death. It also reminds me of Jesus’ words to the first followers when he came walking to them on the water. He told them, “Don’t be afraid, I am here!” (John 6:20; NLT). It seems to me that if the believer can simply keep his/her trust in Jesus that they don’t have to be afraid no matter what life might bring!