We Passed Another Milestone!

C. Hayden 9-12-17

Our Church has reached a generational milestone in its history! One of our lifelong members, who has spent so

many years as part of the life of Central Christian Church, has gone on to live in eternity with the Lord! This week

we have been and will continue saying goodbye to one of the great matriarchs of our Central Christian Church

congregation. Early Saturday morning, Thais Wilhelm went home to be with our Lord Jesus Christ in the glories of

heaven. She passed peacefully and painlessly as God called her home. During this time, those who love her will

surely experience moments that are bittersweet! Bitter because Thais will be missed. She was such an

encouragement to many and

often brought life to those around

her. But it is also sweet

because we know that she is in

heaven, feeling no more

sorrow and no more pain!

2 Corinthians 4:16-18

gives the believer such hope. It says

this, “

Therefore we do not lose

heart. Even though our outward

man

is perishing, yet the

inward man is being renewed day by

day.

17

For our light affliction,

which is but for a moment, is

working for us a far more

exceeding

and

eternal weight of

glory,

18

while we do not look

at the things which are seen, but at

the things which are not seen.

For the things which are seen

are

temporary

, but the things which

are

not seen

are eternal

.” The things of this life are so temporary. Pain, suffering,

loss, heartache, tribulation and trials are all temporary and very short-lived in God’s economy. But the joy and

riches of heaven with His blessings are ever abundant and never-ending!

Jesus put it this way,

“

These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you

will

have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world”

(John 16:33

NKJV). Yes, we will experience

pain, physical, and emotional, while traversing this world. But Jesus experienced the same so that He might

purchase a joyous eternity for us. It often is very bitter to say goodbye to those we love, but for believers in Christ,

saying goodbye to those we love carries with it great joy knowing that we will someday be together again in the

Kingdom of God.

When you feel troubled at times, remember the words Jesus spoke to His disciples,

“Let not your heart be

troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me.

2

In My Father’s house are many mansions; if

it were

not

so,

I

would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.

3

And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and

receive you to Myself; that where I am,

there

you may be also” (John 14:1-3). Goodbye Thais, enjoy the glories of

heaven with the Lord…we will be with you again—very soon!

Be blessed even more!!

Pastor Chris