Lots of things run through your mind when you contemplate life, this world and the afterlife (aftermath). The aftermath is what I was pondering the other day. What is it that we will find? Am I on the right path? What is it going to be like? Will it be a happy place, or a place full of misery? What do I need to do in order to ensure my place in heaven?
Then, a guest pastor came to Salem church and explained to us that the path to heaven is a simple one – Accept Jesus into your heart and be saved. The pastors name was Marlin Martin. He’s a Gideon. Gideon’s witness the word of God and are well known for sharing bibles to all that will accept one. While in the service, I jotted down the following on my Cell Phone as I contemplated the Pastor’s message.
The road to salvation is a narrow one. The path is straight and defined. Waiver in any other direction and be assured the drop off is steep. There is but one answer to the question as to how a person gets to heaven. It is through the grace of God that Jesus Christ offers us the life eternal in God’s heavenly home. It is but through Him that heaven is reached. Through no other will this gift be realized. Through no other will the path be laid clearly in front of you. Through no other is there enough power, might and strength to reach righteousness. Through no work of your own will you pass the pearly gates of heaven. Not by your own strength, efforts or steadfastness will you ever fully feel the love of God. Not on this beautiful green earth or any other distant creation will your heart be lifted of it’s burdens without first allowing your heart to accept Christ’s love into your heart. The path may be narrow, not all will walk it, but Jesus will be your balance if you trust in Him, accept His Father’s grace and let your faith in him be known to all. An open, tender heart to his word makes the way easier but know that even the hardest of hearts can know what it means to beam with God’s light. In your moments of weakness, do not be afraid. Call out to him and he will be there. He will soften the landing as you fall. And if you let Him, He will pick you up and place you on that high road, balance you on that narrow path and see you to a relationship with Him that lasts an eternity.
This came to mind during the days leading up to Sam’s surgery. The knowledge that Sam has accepted Christ in his life has made the unbearable somewhat easier to live through.
You see, Sam knows what all this means. He knows that his Heavenly Father has his back. That no matter the outcome, things will be as they should be. Sam’s faith is infectious. I am hooked and I am glad to be a Christ addict