March 20, 2011

Opening Hymns:
As We Gather Red 16
As The Deer Red 28

Scripture Reading: John 3: 1-21

Message:
Since I became a nurse I have learned more and more about our own mortality. Sometimes people come to the ER with no hope of recovery. Often that is when families surround them the pastor comes and prays over them and there is mourning and recounted stories. This is often the moment when people wonder exactly what happens when someone passes away. I think this has been a question that has been asked for hundreds of generations. Where do we go when we die… or, how do we or our relatives enter into heaven.

This scripture lays it out simply. “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life” (John 3:16). The ultimate gift was God’s sacrifice. We are forgiven and as long as there is belief in our hearts and not doubt then we can be with our God that we trust and love. We needn’t add any more complexities to the simple truth that Jesus spoke of. At times people may think that condemnation will come if certain things are done or are not done… However even the prophets could not condemn demons to hell, how then can a man condemn another man to hell for things he has or has not done? That is why Christ’s sacrifice is such a blessed gift. There is no price we must pay other than the true belief and faith in our God.

Time of Prayer
Dear Lord, thank you for comforting us with such beautiful words from scripture today. Let us not live in fear about things to come, but live in confidence in You. Thank you for Your sacrifice of Your son, and thank You for the gift of life and a close relationship with You. It is truly our most precious gift. Be with us when we morn for those who have passed on. Be with family and friends of persons who have died, and guide them through the time of mourning. Amen

The Lord’s Prayer

Closing Hymn
In the Cross of Christ I Glory

May the Lord bless you and keep you: May the Lord make His face shine upon you, and be gracious unto you: May the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace." Amen.

Go in peace, and serve the Lord
Thanks be to God