As we look into the future, in times like these, many people reflect on the prophecy concerning the end of everything that is. As we mull over the present and future, we can agree on two things: We do not know the exact date or time of the end times, but we know the end is closer than yesterday. For this reason, we implore you to love the Lord sincerely, commit to the Good News of the Gospel, and preach a peace that permeates the soul.
As we move to a new level of existence, pray this prayer: “May God’s grace be eternally upon all who love our Lord Jesus Christ” (Eph. 6:24). The Apostle Peter told his listeners: “Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you are in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory” (1 Pet. 1:8). In the Spirit, we can see what otherwise cannot be seen. Walking by faith, Moses left Egypt, not fearing the king’s anger; he persevered because he could see the invisible God. Neither the Pharaoh nor those who were not in the Spirit can see or experience God’s grace and supernatural faith. “For it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this not from yourselves; it is the gift of God” (Eph. 2:8-9). These are gifts from God, and unlike humans, God does not give gifts and take them back.
Grace is eternal and cannot be purchased or earned through merit. God has enough grace in His treasure chest to spread throughout the nation and the world for eternity. His grace is not only eternal, but unlimited. Jesus Christ’s sacrifice fulfils God’s grace with instructions to spread love and peace to neighbors and enemies. “For He, Himself, is our peace” (Eph. 2:14), and all things were created through Him.
We are all one in Christ Jesus, and carrying the gospel message of peace is essential, so put on the proper shoes and join the race to reconcile and stay reconciled to God. We were created to do good work, and Jesus died so we could have a righteous relationship with God. Paul preached: “Since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ” (Rom. 5:1). The peace Paul is talking about is not the absence of conflict, but the eternal presence of God in hearts and minds guarding our peace which surpasses human understanding.
Like David, we “Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever” (Psa. 136:1). To all who are called to be saints, praise the Lord with joy and gladness and let grace and peace abound (Rom. 1:7). Faith evolves from hearing and believing what is revealed in the Word of God. The mystery of the Gospel is revealed to those who love Him.
Minister Nettie Pennington, Associate Minister, Springfield MB Church
