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March 27, 2006
When we die....
During our evening service we are working through a small group video series and in his message last night, Andy Stanley, talked about the question "What happens when we die?" It wasn't the focus of the message - in fact, it was a small part - but it made me realize what a stupid, yet revealing question it is.
As he said, we all know what happens when we die...we've been to funerals, we've been to cemeteries, and we've seen shows where dead people are unearthed. When we die, "they put make up on you, but you in a box, and bury you in the ground" and then we decay. Everyone knows that this is what happens when you die.
However, knowing that isn't enough. There is something inside of us that is not satisfied by that answer. Something that tells us that there is more to this life then what we see, hear, and taste. There is something that causes us to ask - What's next.
That's where belief comes in. We can never really know (through experience) what's next without being there. But, belief can be strong enough that you do know what comes next. It's also where religion comes in.
Religion can tell you what other people think comes next and you can put your trust in that - but in the end, it's what other people think, not what you believe and you are left doubting. On the other hand, you can have belief and place your trust in something - and KNOW what's coming next.
The question is, are you sure about what's next and if not, why? Is it because your following someone else's belief? Is it because you've placed your faith in a god that has not proven or shown himself to you? Or is it because you believe in God, but you don't trust what He says?
Posted by Jesse at March 27, 2006 3:07 PM