Dear friend,
As the years pass by, I’ve become more aware of just how short life really is. The Bible tells us that “people are appointed to die once, and after that to face judgment” (Hebrews 9:27). With so many distractions in this world, it’s easy simply to drift along and live as though these few years on earth are all there is. But deep down, we know there is more. God has set eternity in our hearts. It would be foolish for us to neglect our souls, our relationship with him, and our eternal destiny.
- We have to admit that we have no power to save ourselves. But thanks be to God, he has not left us without hope. The gospel really is good news — a message from heaven that we need even more than breath itself! Jesus Christ, the Son of God, became man, lived among us in perfect obedience to God, died on the cross for our sins, rose again, and now reigns in glory as Lord over all. One day he will return in power and glory, raise the dead, judge the world, and gather his people into his eternal kingdom.
- You and I both believe these precious truths that we profess in the Creed. But I think you’ll agree with me: it’s not enough simply to know them in our minds. These truths call for a personal response. Christ is not only someone to know about, but someone to trust, follow and love.
Many years ago, when I was still young, I began to feel the weight of my sin and the fear of being lost. By God’s grace, I turned to him in repentance and asked him for mercy. The embrace of his love has been, and still is, the joy and peace of my soul. Since that day, my desire has been to follow my Lord Jesus, to honour him in everything, and to live in the joyful hope that one day I will be with him and enjoy him forever.
So, my friend, I encourage you to think carefully about where you stand before God. If you feel the burden of your sins, listen to God’s call in the gospel. Repent — turn your back on sin, on greed, pride, sexual immorality, grumbling and dishonesty — and turn to God. Do not be afraid to come to him. He is gracious and kind, and welcomes those who come to him with a humble heart. “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit” (Psalm 34:18). Above all, believe in the Saviour, Jesus Christ. You can come to him with confidence, knowing that he will receive you with open arms, forgive your sins, and give you the grace to begin a new life that pleases God.
You may have a thousand questions on your mind. But in the end, the most important question is this: What shall I do with Christ?
The Lord Jesus Christ is worthy of all our trust, love and obedience. So come to him. In your own words, ask him to be your Lord and Saviour. His promise still stands for you today: “Come to me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). “Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water” (John 7:38).