For Better, For Worse! (part 2 of 2)

Later in the same chapter we noted yesterday ( John 5), discussion continued, focused on the miracle Jesus had performed in healing the man who had been an invalid for thirty-eight years. ( John 5:5) That he was healed was something to MARVEL at, but there were still those who would not accept who Jesus was, especially since he was doing some of this "work" on the Sabbath. This was an issue on which Jesus tried to reason with these on more than one occasion, getting His accusers to think about their own actions. (i.e. John 5:16-17; 7:21-24) However better than physical healing was the granting of life itself, and that for an eternity.

Jesus stated. . .
"(20) For the Father loves the Son and shows him all that he himself is doing. And GREATER WORKS THAN THESE WILL HE SHOW him, so that you may marvel. (21) For as the Father raises the dead and gives them life, so also THE SON GIVES LIFE to whom he will." ( John 5:20-21 ESV)

Jesus had brought physical healing to a man. More than this need was that of recognizing the state of one's spiritual health. What an enormous blessing that our Lord's power goes beyond the realm of the physical to provide REAL ABUNDANT LIFE now ( John 10:10) and ETERNAL LIFE to come. Better than merely living life in this world is LIVING THE LIFE IN CHRIST now and for eternity! We must live in and for Him now because a time will come when even those "in the tombs will hear his voice." ( John 5:28) At that rising there will be a distinction made with some experiencing the "RESURRECTION OF LIFE" while others the "resurrection of judgment." ( John 5:29) That "RESURRECTION OF LIFE" will be to live eternally with the Lord.

Praise God for the good things we can enjoy presently in this life. Because of Jesus we can live with great joy now due to the assurance of God's promises in Him. ( 2 Corinthians 1:20) Though our life lived now can be viewed as great, that which is to come in Christ is EVEN GREATER! Therefore, as Christians we could respond to those who ask how we're doing, "I'm doing great, but things will get better!" Praise God for SUCH A LIFE as is provided in Christ to live life to its fullest now and with the assurance of life for an eternity.

Have a great day LIVING ENCOURAGED BY THE ANTICIPATION OF EVEN GRANDER THINGS TO COME!
Carl

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