Jesus came into this world to destroy the works of the Devil and make us children of God; we pray, that having this hope, we might purify ourselves like him, and come to his eternal kingdom. It is a lifelong task for us, and sometimes difficult, seemingly impossible. But with steadfastness and the constant love of God the Father we know the reward can be attained. 

The promise of seeing God was hoped for and for told in the Old Testament Book of Job, wherein he stated, “For I know that my Redeemer lives, and that at the last he will stand upon  the earth; … then in my flesh I shall see God, … and my eyes shall behold …” This, a promise as old as Job, himself, and maybe older.

It is the promise and the hope taught to us by Jesus; that there is something, a life to aspire to, in this world, and in the world to come. This fact, this promise should set aside our fears, and allow us to live in confidence. It is something to hold on to, and give thanks for.

The psalmist asks in his song:

“My footsteps hold fast to the ways of your law; in your paths my feet shall not stumble. I call upon you, O God, for you will answer me … Show me your loving kindness … Keep me as the apple of your eye:”

These are wonderful hoped for Joys that we yearn for; But Paul in his letter to the Thessalonians warns: “For that day will not come unless the rebellion comes first and the lawless one is revealed, the one destined for destruction. … he opposes and exalts himself above every so-called God… declaring himself to be God.” Stand firm he says, and hold fat to the traditions you were taught.”

According to the teaching of Jesus, as found in the Gospel of Luke. The true nature of God and his heaven are revealed. Beset by the legal issues voiced by the Sadducees, concerning marriage and the responsibilities for the widow of a brother, should that brother die. It was a serious matter in those days, that the widow be cared for. But when it becomes protracted, and there is no one left, and all seven brothers and even the widow has died; Then whose wife is she in heaven?

His answer describes life in Heaven: “Indeed they can not die anymore, because they are like the angels and are children of God, being children of the resurrection ... He is God not of the dead but of the living; for to him all of them are alive.” This we believe and with joy profess. Thanks be to God. Amen.

The Rev. George O. Martin is an Ordained Deacon at St. John’s Episcopal Church, 17th and Adams, Great Bend. Send email to georgeom@hbcomm.net.