This is only the beginning

"Therefore, we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay side every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God."  

                                                                             Hebrews 12:1-2   NKJV

I watched a film last night - 'Bonhoeffer - Agent of Grace'. This featured a German pastor during WWII, who lived away from Germany but felt the call to go back there:

'Dietrich Bonhoeffer was a German Lutheran pastor, theologian and anti-Nazi dissident who was a key founding member of the Confessing Church. His writings on Christianity's role in the secular world have become widely influential; his 1937 book The Cost of Discipleship is described as a modern classic. Living in America, he felt the call to return to Germany even though it could cost him his life. Those close to him advised him not to return to Germany, but a doctor insisted that he must due to his religious beliefs. Despite the possibility of persecution by the Nazis, Dietrich Bonhoeffer did return to Germany and preached of the Jews and against Hitler and his Nazi agenda, causing a great stir.'  Sourced from Wikipedia

It is a great film and pushes home the importance of having Jesus in your life and making a stand for Him. One thing that struck me was Bonhoeffer's words towards the end of the film. An SS officer told Him, 'This is the end'. Bonhoeffer's reply was 'No it is not,' meaning this is only the beginning. 

Things come to an end in this life and it maybe life itself. However, for the Christian, it is only the beginning. We have heaven to look forward to where we will meet Jesus, face to face; and where we will live eternally - no more death or sickness. This also encourages us here on earth that, if a door closes God is sure to open another door. Never be frightened of things coming to an end because, it is only the beginning of something that may be even better to what we have left. Jesus can be trusted; He will never close a door, leaving us out in the cold. No, when He closes a door, He goes with us and takes us personally through the new one. He can be trusted.

So have the attitude that this is not the end, it is only the beginning!

If you don't know Jesus or, have fallen away, why not say this prayer right now:

'Lord Jesus, I have sinned and I ask you to forgive me and be my Lord and Saviour. Please come into my heart, fill me with Your Spirit and give me a brand new start today.

In Jesus' Name. Amen'

Copyright 2024 Grahame Howard.                                

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