Jan 22, 2017 4 min read

Scripture reading: Revelation 21:1-7. Text: “And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, ‘See, the home of God is among mortals. He will dwell with them as their God; they will be his peoples, and God himself will be with them; he will wipe every tear from their eyes. Death will be no more; mourning and crying and pain will be no more, for the first things have passed away.'” Revelation 21:3-4.

The author of the book of Revelation describes an ideal situation, namely no tears, death, mourning, crying, and pain anymore. Would we be happy to live in such circumstances? But this exists only in the kingdom of God. We – unfortunately – have to work, serve, and do our duties daily here on earth amidst problems, difficulties, hardships, disappointments, and sometimes tragedies.

HAS CHRISTIANITY HELPED JUST A LITTLE TO GET CLOSER TO THE IDEAL SITUATION?

The question is valid, however, even our Lord had not promised trouble-free conditions to His followers: “‘In the world you face persecution. But take courage; I have conquered the world!'” John 16:33/b. See also Luke 10:3 and Acts of Apostles 14:22.

In the Bible there is wonderful advice but still there are no easy solutions to heartbreaking situations. There are some principles which definitely help, for instance: “‘But strive first for the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.'” Matthew 6:33, but magic formulas are not available.

LET US FACE REALITY AND START FROM THERE. WHAT ARE THE PROBLEMS?

MENTALITY, or, the modern way of thinking. The materialistic advantages and physical pleasures are more important than spiritual values.

MARRIAGE. Since there are so many denominations the chance is very small that a young lady and gentleman will marry from the same faith. Often the solution is to drop the issue and become unchurched.

MOVING. Due to job situations many young couples have to move somewhere else where employment is available. When one is not rooted in the community, the new comers are outsiders; many times they do not feel like they want to join any church or organization.

MONEY, or in other words, market-oriented economy. I buy with my money whatever I like or want, and if the churches do not satisfy me, I do not support them. Whatever is not profitable for me is no good.

MADNESS. When the divorce rate is high and litigation rampant then the fighting partners do not want to see each other in the church either. Any “good excuse” will cover the real reason why people stay away from the churches.

IN A HUMBLE WAY, WHAT IS OUR ANSWER AND WHAT ARE THE POSITIVE STEPS?

MESSIAH, or in the Greek form: CHRIST. His teaching, examples, death and resurrection can change the whole picture of a materialistic mentality. With Him we see more, farther, and more clearly to come to the right judgment and conclusion.

MESSAGE. To become a Christian is not a final station but a direction, goal, challenge, and an unceasing commitment. We cannot save ourselves; we need a Savior.

MISSION. We are constantly called and sent. We are called from the spiritually unfavorable condition and, as His children, sent into the often-unfriendly world to be His witnesses.

MINISTRY. It is a heart-penetrating and life-transforming service, for both body and soul. Please read the story of the Good Samaritan, Luke 10:29-37, as well as the story of rich man and Lazarus, Luke 16:19-31.

MEDITATE seriously about what God wants to tell you. For instance: “Finally, beloved, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” Philippians 4:8.

Spiritually it is still true what Jesus had to offer to His listeners: “‘Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.'” Matthew 11:28-30.