Here Today, Gone Tomorrow

Revelation 21:4
And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.


How would you define pain? Since 1968, the most widely used definition of pain in clinical settings is the one set forth by pain researcher Margo McCaffery: Pain is “whatever the experiencing person says it is, existing whenever and wherever the person says it does.” In other words, no one can tell another person that they are not in pain. Pain is as unique as the individuals who profess to experience it.

Think about any pain you may be experiencing now—relational pain, physical pain, emotional pain, spiritual pain. Regardless of the kind of pain you are experiencing now it will “soon” be over. The Bible says that in the New Jerusalem “there shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.” Whatever kind of pain you feel today, an eternal day is coming in which you will feel it no more if you live in the New Jerusalem. Every God-designed need and longing of the human spirit, soul, and body will be met completely in Christ.

Let today’s pain lead you to tomorrow’s pleasure in heaven.

God…shouts in our pains; it is His megaphone to rouse a deaf world.
C.S. Lewis

From Turning Points Devotional Online Monday, Feb 8, 2010

Keepers of the Light

Matt. 5:14
Ye are the light of the world…


Before lighthouses dotted the shores of many of our coasts; numerous sailors along with their vessels lost their lives to the dangers and perils which lie beneath the shallow waters of our country, running aground without warning. Because countless lives were lost, others saw the need to warn them of the hazards which lie ahead. This warning became a light, a beacon of hope in a storm tossed sea guiding many safely home. The lighthouse became a sailor’s friend and brought great comfort and hope.

The job of keeping the light burning so that mariners could navigate through treacherous waters and return home safely was given to the “Keepers of the Light.” The job included many tasks. One had to ensure that the lens was clean and free from cracks or chips which would defuse the light reducing its ability to shine. The wick had to be trimmed properly every three to four hours. Enough oil and supplies needed to be stocked so it would not run out. The light was to be lit at sunset and cut off at sunrise unless there was inclement weather. All the mechanical parts of the light had to be greased regularly. This and many other tasks were requirements of the job. The single most important part of their job was to ensure that the light never went out.

Many “Keepers of the Light” took great pride and dedication in performing their tasks. They realized the importance of the light and the safety of the lives of others which was placed in their hands. Some even sacrificed their lives for the lives of others. There were some that weren’t as diligent about their jobs allowing the light to go out. This lack of concern about their job and others caused many to lose their lives. This also brought on disgrace to the keeper of the light and his family.

As a child of God, we are the “Keepers of the Light” to a dark and dying world. When the storms of life and the perils of Satan try to run others aground, it’s up to us to show them the way to the safe heaven of Gods rest. Are you doing your part to ensure that others see the light, or have you allowed the light to go out? Think about it. It could be your loved one trying to reach the shore.


Louis W. Edwards

PS. Leave your comment if you dare to be a “Keeper of the Light.”