Everyone will have a Change of Address

“Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?’” John 11:25-26

In a story titled “Runner dies during charity half-marathon” published by BBC News on Sunday, it was reported that A runner taking part in a half-marathon for charity has collapsed and died during the race. He had been taking part in the annual Southend Half Marathon in Shoeburyness, Essex. The East of England Ambulance Service Trust (EEAST) confirmed it was called out to the event just before 11:00 BST after receiving reports of a medical emergency on Mess Road. “Two ambulances, an ambulance officer vehicle, a rapid response vehicle and the Essex and Herts Air Ambulance were sent to the scene," it said. "Sadly, despite the best efforts of medical crews, an adult man was pronounced dead at the scene.” In a statement, the charity said the deceased man's family had been informed. "It is with immense sadness that we can confirm a runner who took part in the Southend Half Marathon has died," it said. "The male runner collapsed on the route and treatment was given immediately. "Our thoughts and sincere condolences are with his family and friends at this incredibly sad time. "We know this is very upsetting news for the whole running community and our thoughts are with all those affected."

And you know, while it can be “upsetting news” to learn about the death of a loved one, there’s no reason for gloom if the person who died was a believer in Jesus Christ. You see, to comfort Martha after the death of her brother, Lazarus, Jesus said to her “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die.” That means, as Charles Spurgeon explained, “Those that believe in Jesus Christ appear to die, but yet they live. They are not in the grave, they are forever with the Lord. They are not unconscious they are with their Lord in Paradise. Death cannot kill a believer, it can only usher him into a freer form of life.” Therefore, death is not the end! It’s merely gives believers a change of address. Is that comforting or what? 

So, if you have not accepted Jesus as your Savior, don’t put it off any longer my friend. As this story shows, we aren’t promised tomorrow. But we are promised eternal life with Jesus by choosing to believe in Him now. And that’s the best news there could ever be!

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that death is not the end. Everyone who dies will have an immediate change of address… believers will spend eternal life in heaven, and nonbelievers will be condemned to eternal life in hell. Help us to truly understand this so that we would choose to follow You now and urge others to do the same. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!