EVER FELT LIKE AN ORPHAN?
“I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.” (John 14:18 NIV)
My father served in the judiciary; and was a well-respected man in society. At the time of his demise, I was only a child. I still remember it being a very sad and lonely season of my life. In the void his death created, my prayerful mother became both mother and father to us. Some years ago, when my mother was promoted to glory, once again I found that same feeling knocking on my door – this time I was an orphan!
Christianity reminds us that there are not many doors into heaven. Nor are there any alternate routes into the family of God. There is God’s way, and it is the only way. (John 14:6) The children of Israel thought they could attain salvation by keeping the law. Others before and since, have worked out their own ways to gain salvation. Procedures don’t make us a part of the family of God – only Jesus Christ does. His promise to never leave me alone as an orphan became a reality in my life. As a teenager I invited Christ to be the Lord and Savior of my life. I also believed His word that He would come to me, and not leave me to face life all alone – no matter how I felt at times. So, if you are in that place, remember: In times of intense grief and loneliness, when you call on Jesus, He is with you too! (John 14:18)
The leader Moses reminds us of God’s requirement of the people of Israel: obedience resulting in blessing and life, or disobedience resulting in cursing and death. And Moses went on to encourage them with the choice to make. “Now choose life, so that you and your children may live.” (Deuteronomy 30:19) Choosing sin brings consequences. But when we submit our life to God in repentance, He will be merciful and restore us beyond our expectations. (Deut. 30:2-5) Today, God is raising a family; He is building His kingdom. For us the final work of Jesus on the cross has restored our fellowship with God and we are adopted into His family. He expects us to grow in faith and trust in Him. “Love the Lord your God. . .and remain faithful to Him. For He is your life.” (Deut. 30:20 CSB) Therefore, be encouraged: you are surely not destined to be an orphan!