It was scooped up from the sea after 98 years – a bottle with a message. Fisherman Andrew Leaper found the bottle released in 1914. It was part of a government experiment to map the under currents of the sea. It was the oldest message ever recorded in a bottle. But I’m thinking today of an older message, not in a bottle, but in a book – the Bible. In this remarkable book we read many wonderful messages. Here’s one – “God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have everlasting life.” God did all this that we might be forgiven. The 98 year old message in the bottle is very interesting. But this timeless message in the book is of far greater significance because it can be the means of transforming lives and preparing us for the next life.
Category Archives: Just a minute
Oct 05 – This Remarkable Earth
In the busy-ness of life, it is easy to forget how truly amazing is this Earth on which we all live. For example, did you know that the area of the Earth is almost 200 million square miles? That Earth travels through space at 66,700 miles per hour? And that Earth’s oceans are an average of two miles deep? In the 19th Psalm in the Bible, we are reminded, “the heavens declare the glory of God, the sky above proclaims his handiwork.” And John wrote in his gospel, about Christ, “all things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made.” Later in that same chapter, John wrote, “….to all who received Him, who believed in His name, He gave the right to become the Children of God…” You can receive Christ into your life by a simple act of faith!
Oct 3 – David Suzuki
Environmentalist and author David Suzuki will give the 10th national Symons lecture on the state of confederation this November. In his mid-seventies, he said he is now in what he called “the death zone.” Suzuki was honestly facing the reality that all of us die eventually. When we are past 70, in most cases we are closer to it than those who are younger. But whatever our age, we all have a rendezvous with the grim reaper. Solomon, the world’s wisest man, was inspired to give some sound advice, both to Suzuki and all of us when he wrote, ”do not boast about tomorrow, you do not know what a day may bring forth.” And the prophet Amos added, appropriately, “prepare to meet your God.” We do that by becoming properly related to him, through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
Oct 1 – Neil Armstrong
As long as there are history books, Neil Armstrong will be remembered for taking one small step on a world beyond our own. His recent death and burial have brought many accolades to this remarkable man-the first man to walk on the moon. Some day, every person will go beyond the confines of this world. The bible teaches that our bodies will return to dust, but our souls and spirits will live on for eternity. How important it is to make our peace with God, by acceptance of Christ’s sacrifice on the cross for us. Paul the apostle wrote, “now is the day of salvation”, indicating that now is the time to get right with God. We have no guarantee in regards to our life span, or what tomorrow has in store for us. It may be later than we think.
Sept 26 – Don Harron
Actor comedian Don Harron was a familiar figure in Canadian life for many years. He used wigs, makeup, a woman’s voice or a different pair of spectacles. Other times he donned a wool cap, raggedy sweater, and became lovable Charlie Farquharson. But from time to time he put away his costumes and appeared as himself. He once said ”Playing Don Harron is the toughest for me. I’m an actor and I like to hide.” And many of us find it easier to have different faces for different situations instead of facing our true selves courageously and admitting what we are really like. John’s Gospel says of Christ, “He did not need man’s testimony about man, for He knew what was in man.” God knows what we are all about. He calls on us to acknowledge what we are – sinners by nature and by choice – and He invites us turn to Jesus Christ for forgiveness and a right relationship with Him.
Sept 24 – The Mars Rover Curiosity
NASA scientists watched in suspense as the two billion dollar laboratory rover travelled millions of kilometers to look for signs of life, and landed safely on Mars. This amazing scientific feat is exciting for many reasons. It reveals the immensity of the universe, and gives a glimpse of the greatness of our creator. Genesis 1 says, “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” As the rover takes pictures identifying more of the size and complexity of our universe, we should see how naïve it is to suggest that this universe happened by accident. It is clearly the result of a direct act by an intelligent designer. John’s Gospel tells us that Jesus is God, and that “All things were made through Him.” As Stuart Hamblen wrote, ”He’s big enough to rule the mighty universe, but small enough to live within my heart.” Is He in your life?
Sept 21 – 100 million dollar penthouse
An exclusive listing in New York City offers an octagon shaped penthouse in midtown Manhattan that boasts three floors of living space, panoramic views of the city, six bedrooms, and nine bathrooms. The asking price: 100 million dollars. Without a doubt, some rich person will consider it a good bargain and purchase it. But I know of a much better deal. Just before He returned to His father, Jesus said, “In my father’s house are many rooms. I go to prepare a place for you. I will come again and take you to myself, that where I am, you may be also.” Then, when asked how to get to that fabulous place, Jesus responded, “I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the father except through Me. That mansion in heaven is better than any penthouse on earth. And there is no charge, because it is received freely by grace, by all who sincerely ask for it.
Sept 19 – Broken hearts and sadness
The television news aired a touching interview with the broken hearted Chinese mother of the young Concordia University student who was murdered and dis-membered. It was just one of the several events that resulted in injury, death and broken hearts. Perhaps you have just been shocked by having lost your job, or by bad medical news, or you’ve just lost a loved one. You will no doubt receive the sympathy and support from loved ones and friends. But there is more. The Bible tells us that our heavenly father is, “The God of all comfort.” And Peter wrote in the New Testament, “Casting all your anxieties on him (Christ) because He cares for you.” When He sees sadness, He is moved with compassion. If you have a broken heart today, I invite you to get in touch with the Lord Jesus Christ. He is the healer of broken hearts.
Sept 17 – Hurricane Season
Katrina, Igor, Hazel, Juan, Julia, Karl, Earnesto, Kirk, and Yanessa are the names given to hurricanes past present and future, and we are now in the dangerous and destructive Atlantic hurricane season. Continually, we are being warned to be prepared for the worst. We are urged to prepare by covering window glass with protective film to prevent shattering, remove all outdoor furniture and other safeguards. Preparedness is always a good idea, but not just for natural disasters. The New Testament reminds us that we do not know what a day may bring forth. And the most important preparedness of all is that for the next life. Amos, in the Old Testament warned, “Prepare to meet your God.” He spoke of preparation for the next life with which each of has an appointment. Are you prepared, or are you still procrastinating?
Sept 12 – Preparation for life after death
The British Columbia Supreme Court has decided that Gloria Taylor, who suffers from ALS, can end her life at the time of her choosing. Whatever one’s view of this very controversial subject, it is a stark reminder that death is a part of the cycle of life, and needs to be faced realistically. People prepare for death by purchasing insurance, making living wills and planning their funerals. But sadly, many make no preparation for life after death. You don’t believe there is life after death? What if, outside the circle of your knowledge, the God of the Bible does exist? What if, as the Bible states, we will all one day be accountable? You and I can be prepared by acknowledging our spiritual needs and trusting in Christ alone to take us into the next life. The Apostle John wrote, in First John 5:13 that “We may “know that we have eternal life.” Do you have that assurance?
