We try to avoid the topic.

We prefer not to think about it, not to talk about it.

We keep ourselves busy with other topics.

We literally talk about “killing the time”.

Yet it is one of the few things in the future, that is 100% sure.

We do not need to worry about the end of life.

Rather, let’s make the best of the time we have.

Let’s spend time wisely on what is really important in life.

Carpe diem.

Many people with a bad reputation came and listened to Jesus.

The religious elites grumbled “this man welcomes sinners and even eats with them”.

What do you think about that?

We all tend to categorize people by their reputation and status.

But let’s be aware – God uses other standards.

While we can only see what is on the surface, God looks much deeper into the hearts.

“You shall not murder” – a commandment which is very well known.

It is a matter of common sense among the sane community.

Even people who have nothing to do with religion will agree.

Beyond the literal meaning, we are also called to bless – not curse – others.

To help – not to take advantage.

To build up our as well as other person’s lives – not to tear down.

What do you do with that?

The good news brings joy!

What brings the word “gospel” to your mind?

Sadness and grieving?

For sure life provides plenty of hardships.

Yet the ultimate message of victory is filled with joy, true hope and peace.

Let’s pray that God may guide and protect us throughout all the negative things that burden us.

What are currently your biggest burdens and worries?

Is it to have enough for life? How to pay all the bills? Or health issues? Or persecution?

Let us every day lift up our eyes to the Lord!

Praise the Lord for his good deeds.

He carries the biggest burdens and saves us.

He helps us to carry our burdens.

All things work together for good for those, who love God.

Nothing is too hard for God.

Do you believe that?

He may not answer all our prayers immediately.

He may not fulfil all our wishes.

But he has all the power.

And he knows, what is best for us.

Nothing is too hard for God to do, neither in the physical world nor in the spiritual world.

He offers us his strength.

In a world full of darkness, there is a light.

That light is so bright, that it lightens up all kinds of darkness.

There are various kinds of darkness.

For many people it is not so obvious, on the surface, life seems to be ok and successful, e.g. the career is going well, yet there are so often inner problems, anxieties about the future, persecution, diseases, guilt and all kinds of negative things.

Whatever kind of trouble one deals with, whether it is our own fault or caused by others, in any case the light of the Lord is shining brighter than any darkness can be.

Jesus shows us light at the end of the tunnel.

His word can give us clarity also in decision making about the future and in all other aspects.

Many people think of God as a “big brother watching”, who only looks out whether we do something wrong in order to punish us.

But it is not like that.

God is full of love and mercy. He wants to help us and to give us fulfilled lives.

In all situations of life, we can involve God into our lives.

Even with the things that we have done wrong, we can turn to the Lord.

He wants to forgive us and enables new beginnings.

He offers the most precious covenant that lasts forever.

We pray in the Lord’s prayer “Your kingdom may come”.

But - what does it mean?

For one for sure, that God may establish his eternal kingdom and may let us participate.

But it is also significant for our lifes here on earth: That God may establish his kingdom of kindness, goodness, forgiveness and grace, in which people help and bless each other instead of destroying and harming each other.

The mustard seed is a very small seed but it can grow into something big.

In the same way, a small good deed can result in a big blessing.

How much value do you assign to the word of the Lord?

Is it just one among many other topics in life?

Some people spend huge amounts in seminars.

The guidance and instructions of God, which are much more valuable, are available for free.