“However, do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.” — Luke 10:19-20 (NIV)
This past year has been extremely challenging for most of us. We’ve struggled with hard things and suffered in many ways. We’ve needed encouragement. I’d like to remind you that if you are a Christian, you do have that encouragement — a reason to rejoice. You are going to heaven. Furthermore, He wants us to reach out to others with the Gospel. Consequently, you’ll be glad to hear that over the past few weeks, several people have gotten saved through the ministry of our church!
For example, two people recently went to our Connections Booth and were led to Christ. They prayed to receive the gift of salvation. Another young woman heard the Gospel after our last Core Meeting; she asked Jesus to forgive her sins. Also, a nine-year-old boy prayed to receive Christ after watching our livestream service. I’ve heard of several others who are very close to surrendering to Jesus. They have been moved, not just by the Gospel, but by the love of the people at The Rock.
God’s perspective on the importance of helping people find Jesus:
“I [Jesus] tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.” — Luke 15:7 (NIV)
“What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul?” — Mark 8:35-36 (NIV)
“I tell you, use worldly wealth to gain friends for yourselves, so that when it is gone, you will be welcomed into eternal dwellings.” — Luke 16:9
“For the Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost.” — Luke 19:10 (NIV)
Dear Christian, in the midst of difficulties, we should continue to rejoice in the blessings of God. He is at work and using you to draw people to Himself. Because of that, they will be in heaven with Him (and you) forever.
Rejoicing with you,
Posted in A Word from the Pastor