"It's Not the Destination, it's the Journey" In our earthly existence, we often hear the saying, "It's not the destination but the journey," and while this sentiment holds some truth, as Christians, we must also recognize the importance of the final destination awaiting us. It is true that our journey here on earth is significant, filled with experiences, challenges, and growth opportunities. However, the ultimate destination we are headed towards carries even greater weight. As those who believe and receive the Bible as Divine Revelation, we acknowledge that our eternal destination after this life's journey is of utmost importance. “What should it profit a man to gain the whole world but lose his soul?” (Mark 8:36). The Bible teaches that while it may be easier to relate to the journey aspect of our faith, Jesus Christ has gone beyond the grave and back again to secure our eternal destination where our faith becomes sight. All this is by God’s grace and mercy through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, God’s Son, who "was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification.” (Romans 4:25) Without Jesus, our final destination would be grim, akin to being on death row, and meeting our eternal destruction up next. However, through the Good News of the Gospel, we have received pardon in Christ Jesus. Our Savior's sacrificial death on the cross ensures that death is now merely a portal into a new beginning, where we are granted an undeserved inheritance that surpasses all our expectations. Ephesians 3:20 reassures us that we will receive more than we can ask or imagine, all through the power of God already at work within us. As we tread the inclines and dips of our earthly journey, let us not lose sight of the eternal destination that awaits us because of Jesus' redemptive work. While the journey may be filled with unforeseen challenges around every bend, our hope is anchored in the promise of a glorious destination secured for us by our risen and ascended Savior. Let us, therefore, fix our eyes on Jesus, giving thanks for the little joys amidst our struggles in this life, and live each day in anticipation of the pure eternal joys awaiting us in His unbroken presence forever! - Pastor Mike