Real Life by Peggi Tustan

Welcome to Real Life . “Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.” [1]  These words were proclaimed every Sunday in the church I attended while growing up. I understood that Jesus died and rose again. But, I never thought about the “Christ will come again” part.  In the days before Jesus is crucified, he warns the disciples that he will soon die. But, the cross will not be the end. He will rise from the dead. Afterwards, he will go to heaven to prepare a place for them. Then, he promises to return for them at a later date. The disciples ask, “Tell us what will be the sign of your coming?”  “No one knows the day or hour when these things will happen,” Jesus says. He gives four word pictures to emphasize one point: his return will be unexpected.  First Picture. It will be like Noah’s day. People were throwing parties, getting married, and living their everyday lives right up until the moment the flood swept them away. I've seen footage of t...

Welcome to  Real Life . How often I have wished, “if only I had more money.” Money provides the freedom to do many things. It’s tempting to believe that if I were rich, my problems would disappear. But, what if my riches were my greatest problem?   “Oh Lord, won’t you buy me a Mercedes Benz?”   – song lyrics by Janis Joplin  A chauffeur-driven Mercedes rolls up to the temple gate. The car door swings open and a young man gets out. He flashes a blindingly white smile at the crowd that is gathering to admire his ride. He straightens his custom-tailored Armani suit, glances at his Rolex, and then strides through the temple gate. ( Okay, Mercedes weren't around in Jesus’ day, but this is how the scene might translate today.)  Approaching Jesus, the young man asks, “Teacher, what good thing must I do to get eternal life?”  Jesus’ response is interesting, “Why do you ask me about what is good? There is only One who is good …” He answered t...