Journey, an update 4-12-07

“For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Romans 15:4-6

As I reflect on the wonder of the resurrection that we celebrated this past week I was alerted to the words endurance, encouragement and hope.

We have the gospel that tells us of the age old plan of salvation, the amazing sacrifice of the cross and the glory of the resurrection. And when we bind that teaching with endurance, we find hope. Isn’t it interesting that endurance is part of the package? Hope doesn’t come from just an emotional response to the truth, but a lifestyle of persevering in belief and putting truth into action.

And giving hope is what the resurrection was all about. Hope is why I serve here in Hungary today; the hope that lives will be changed and that God will be glorified.