Westside Church of Christ

America’s economy has hit some rocky patches. It isn’t the first time, as we reflect on the great depression and periodic recessions throughout our history. Inflation expands expenses and shrinks the dollar. The wealthy see their fortunes reversed, but it affects all of us. Thankfully, Christians have security far beyond the shaky foundations of this world. We have a living hope that remains infinitely valuable and cannot be touched.

The stock market fluctuates and takes the whole economy with it. Our eternal inheritance will never lose its value. High tech may crash. Banks fail. Businesses worldwide totally collapse, but heaven’s reward never will. That living hope to which we have been born again is assured by an empty tomb. Resurrection proves that the forces at work guaranteeing it are greater than any events in this world.

Our inheritance is reserved under the Lord’s watchful eye. No dictator, financial expert, politician or outlaw (If there is a difference!) can take it away. It will never be taxed nor can it be stolen. It is beyond the touch of this egocentric world, and its value will never go down. In a world where so many crooks are working the angles to get their hands on our money, our loving God wants to give us something that is far more valuable. No surprise, though, He has already given us His Son to make it possible.

The resurrection is the certainty that our hope is alive. The Lord has given Christians a brand new start and a future that is beyond compare (1 Peter 1:3-9). We share in the life of a risen, living Lord. It is the certainty of what awaits us beyond this flesh-and-blood experience that keeps us going through the ups-and-downs of our lives. Children of God know that this only is a temporary home. We are on a journey with a destination that is truly out of this world.

Our eyes are fixed on the eternally valuable things. Our bodies break down. Health fails. Loved ones get sick and die. We are worn down by the immorality and degrading standards that are shoved down our throats. It is all part of our world and can be very discouraging if we don’t look beyond the visible. So, we focus our attention on the unseen things that never deteriorate and are everlasting (2 Corinthians 4:16-18). There is our hope.

It is laid up in heaven (Colossians 1:3-5). It affects everything when we really grasp our future. Our faith is in Christ, and our love is for all the Christians (Even the unlovable ones!) because of the prospects of eternity with our God which are described in His word. We know that everything here is only for a moment. The place prepared for us will never end. Hope. Everyone needs it, and some never find it. There is none without God. With Him, it is

endless. The empty tomb guarantees it.