It is not easy to be a Christian. God calls us to believe things we have never seen. We believe our sins are forgiven – not because of anything we have done to erase them, but because he is gracious. We believe in a God we cannot explain – he is one God who is three separate persons. We believe that in the water of baptism God washes away sins and creates faith and that in the bread and wine of communion we receive Jesus’ body and blood for the forgiveness of our sins.

God also calls us to live in a way that is not easy. We struggle against the sinful urges that come from within us. We do not follow the ways and philosophies of the world. We recognize and identify evil in the world – even when others try to rationalize, excuse, or accept evil. We want to live godly, loving lives of service to others is a way that reflects God’s will and the grace he has showered into our lives.

What hope do we have to believe the impossible and live as God’s people in a sinful world? In his letter to the Colossians Paul wrote this:
"For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding. And we pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and joyfully giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light." (Colossians 1:9–12 NIV)

Through Jesus, the Father “has qualified” you for life in his kingdom! He has worked faith in your heart through the Holy Spirit. He continues to strengthen and guide you with his Word. He has washed away your imperfections in the blood of Jesus and now views you as qualified to be in heaven!

It is not easy, but by God’s grace, you are a member of God’s kingdom for all eternity. Be strong and take comfort in his grace! Crush your doubts with the promises of God’s Word. Renew your strength as you hear and believe the good news of what Jesus has done for you. You are perfectly qualified to be God’s child because Jesus is your Lord and Savior.

 

Pastor Aufdemberge

Pastor Kneser

Pastor Wempner

Pastor Zarling