A few words about your “political statement”. I agree with the article in every way. I was taught I had to work for everything I had. There were very hard times now and then but we managed to always tough it out. That is why our generation is so strong and have our beliefs.

I was taught that I needed insurance and the only way I could have it was to buy it. Our parents taught us there was no free lunch. If they were alive today, they wouldn’t believe what has happened in this country. Every politician is promising to give more, more, more. Especially Hillary! And there are thousands standing with their hands out waiting!

When I grocery shop, I compare my grocery basket with those who are on food stamps. They buy three times what I buy. They will have the finest roasts, finest steaks, snacks running out their yahoo, and looks like every frozen item the store sells! I am not against fat.....but they are usually huge.

My son, being in the computer business, says the folks living on the give away government checks buy everything the cable system has to offer, including the Showtimes, HBO’s, etc. They get the best of everything! Now I realize there are a few who might absolutely have to have it but that is a minority group. Well, I have bashed enough! Guess many others feel the same way I do!

October 30, 2007

Bon Voyage

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READ: 2 Timothy 4:1-8

The time of my departure is at hand. —2 Timothy 4:6

Paul’s word departure in 2 Timothy 4:6 is freighted with significance. It means "loosing" or "unmooring." It’s a word he uses again when he sighs, "I am hard-pressed between the two, having a desire to depart and be with Christ" (Phil. 1:23).

Departure is a nautical term that suggests "shipping out"—weighing anchor, slipping the lines that tether us to this world and getting underway. It’s a marvelous metaphor for dying.

For believers in Christ, death is not an end but a beginning. It means leaving this old world behind and getting to a better place, completing the purpose for which we were made. It’s a time for joy and excitement and a hearty "Bon Voyage!"

All voyages, however, are fraught with uncertainty, especially those that pass through waters never sailed before. We don’t fear death so much as we do the passage. Who knows what dangers lie ahead?

But the journey is not uncharted. One has taken it before us, and He has returned to bring us safely through. Although we pass through the valley of the shadow of death, God is with us all the way (Ps. 23:4). His hands are on the helm as He guides us to the heavenly haven He has prepared for us (John 14:1-3).

Say not it’s a dreadful journey
When the Savior leads the way;
It’s but passing through the shadows
To the land of endless day! —Bosch

Those who fear God need not fear death.

Bible in One Year: Jeremiah 20-21; 2 Timothy 4