My Future Hope In Christ

About 5 or 6 years ago, the praise band that Deanna and I were a part of, lead the worship service one Sunday night. In between songs, each member was given a time of testimony.
The theme was “Our hope in Christ”, I was asked (before the service) if I would speak about “My future hope in Christ”.
Revelation 21:4 was the one I was ending with, and as I read it, my voice started cracking, and my eyes started tearing up. It was like I wasn’t reading it, but like I was experiencing it.
Ever since that day, I’ve been more and more anticipating Jesus’ return. Amen, come Lord Jesus!

Here it is:

My future hope in Christ begins each day, anew.

Without Christ in my life, and the hope and peace He brings, looking at the world, our local and national news and seeing the death, violence, hatred and total disregard for fellow human beings…why would I want to continue? Why should I?

But, with Christ in my life, I continue on. Knowing that life is but a vapor, it’s here and then it disappears. Not only that, but I have also received power, the power of the Holy Spirit, to be a light in a dark world. To show my hope to others who are hopeless.

I Peter 3:15 says,

“but set apart Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence.” Being ready; to share the hope.

How do I get ready? First, study God’s word,”heaven and earth will pass away, but the word of the Lord endures forever.” Second, Pray! Pray without ceasing! Third, follow Jesus’ example- witness, but don’t stop there- make disciples, teach new believers how to become established in the faith.

“And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.” Rev.21:4 

This is my hope, firmly rooted in the word of God. Riches won’t last, glory fades away and people disappoint us. Speaking as a Christian, a husband, father, Sunday School teacher, deacon and employee… I’m just a person…and I will fail you and have failed you. And I ask for your forgiveness and your prayers as I seek to serve you and my Lord Jesus better.

Put your hope in Him, trust what He says for He is faithful and true.