No Threat

We can value many different things in life; riches, fame, education, security, love, possession, athletic ability, etc. In the face of all that could captivate our heart, Jesus speaks and says in Mark 8:36 ” For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?” Jesus is comparing what we value on earth in the light of our soul and its eternity. Recently we have experienced terrorist threats, activities and murder in our country. In this context, fear can easily grip the hearts of people. The security of our nation and ourselves, as individuals, can seem to be shattered. The looming of death and global threat can cause us to feel undermined and vulnerable. It is understandable how the threat of death puts fear and insecurity into the hearts of people. Looking at the corollary of the above scripture we would see, “what would a man loose if he keeps his soul in eternity and loses the whole world?” The fear of death can easily grip our hearts, if we feel that life here on earth is the most important thing. However, when we focus upon the life that we are moving into, that of eternity, then the prospect of death need not be a fearful thing. That is why Paul can say in 1 Cor. 15:55 “Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?” May your confidence in having eternal life through Christ Jesus, remove the fear of death from your heart. May the peace of Christ prevail in all that comes before you.