| Those Before Us Nov. 5, 2008 |
them, embraced them and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. 14 For those who say such things declare plainly that they seek a homeland. 15 And truly if they had called to mind that country from which they had come out, they would have had opportunity to return. 16 But now they desire a better, that is, a heavenly country. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for He has prepared a city for them.
they have lived as examples for us to model. We must carry on this tradition. It must be a tradition to live with integrity. A tradition to exhibit exemplary behavior and to perform every task with a spirit of excellence. A tradition to make moral judgments and to live legitimately. A tradition to honor one another and to give respect to whom respect is due. We must continue to overcome by extending our hand of fellowship to others less fortunate. We must uplift our communities with testimonies of the God we serve and vow never to let our children forget the sacrifices that were made in their behalves by those who have gone before. And let us not forget that if it were not for the sacrifices of Noah, Abraham would not have been born. It it were not for the trials of Joseph, Israel would still be desolate. If Mary had lacked the courage to bear baby Jesus, then we would be without a Savior. And likewise, if we do not bear the trials and tribulations that God has mandated for us, we risk stifling the next generation. The suffering that we have endured has not been in vain nor is the time that is spent on our knees. We have to come to the realization that each test is significant. Each test has a purpose. Each test creates an opportunity and that opportunity is to tell someone else that they can make it too! Even Peter thought he was going to drown, but when he looked up, he saw Jesus (his Savior) and with one shout everything was at peace. (Matt 14:29-33) So, please, don't give up. We need you to complete your mission as much as we needed those who came before us to complete theirs. Just call on Jesus and He will ensure that you make it back to the boat all right. I hope you enjoyed reading the word of God in a new light. Have a Happy Wednesday! God Bless, Minister Tommy and Sister Shatika Gray |