“For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life.”

John 3:16 

This is one of the most popular Bible verses and certainly one of my favorites as well. It concisely conveys God’s amazing gift, promise, and love for us as well as the incredible sacrifice made by Jesus Christ.  This promise helps me get through challenging times.

Growing up, I was blessed by having an immediate and extended family who were strong in their faith and kept God at the center of their lives. I remember worshiping with those relatives in church most every Sunday and visiting afterward.  What an incredible gift to be brought to church and not having to find my way on my own.  Through the years our extended family would get together on holidays such as  Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter.  There were the perennial food items each year such as the turkey and stuffing on Thanksgiving, and the ham and scalloped potatoes for Easter.  Those celebrations and meals seemed constant throughout the years, something I could look forward to every year.  However, some things did not stay the same. Unfortunately, my mother and three of my grandparents died in their fifties which is far too young in my opinion.  I wish I could still see them, talk with them, and celebrate the holidays together.  That is where this Bible verse really helps me.  It reminds me of the great gift God has given us, the promise that one day we will be together again, that death is not final, and that we can look forward to eternal life.  As we approach Easter again this year, while I can probably count on the Easter ham and potatoes, I know I can certainly count on God’s promise.  While I may celebrate Easter without some loved ones who have gone before us, this Bible verse reminds me that death is not the final chapter.  When daily challenges seem substantial, this helps me to keep things into perspective and know that God is bigger than any challenge I might face.

Prayer: Dear Father, when facing loss or challenging times, may we find comfort in your words and promise.  Help us to keep all things in perspective knowing that you are bigger than any challenge we face.  Thank you for the gift of Jesus Christ and the promise of eternal life in your kingdom. Amen.

Brian Fischer