From the Pastor’s Heart

Some of you are familiar with the Gospel song written many years ago by Bill and Gloria Gaither. The refrain goes, “Because He lives, I can face tomorrow. Because He lives, all fear is gone. Because I know He holds the future, and life is worth the living just because He lives.” The story behind that song is inspiring.

In the lat 1960’s, while expecting their third child, the Gaithers were going through a traumatic time. Their firstborn child, Suzanne, was four, and her sister Amy was three months old. The timing for another baby wasn’t ideal. On top of that, Bill was recovering from a bout with mononucleosis.

The breakup of the marriage of Bill’s sister, Mary Ann, had left his family devastated. What’s more, a close friend had accused Bill and Gloria of using their ministry just to make a few bucks. All this plunged Bill into a deep depression.

Gloria remembers this also as a time of fear and sadness in society. This was the time of the “God is dead” movement. Drug abuse and racial tension were increasing. The thought of bringing another child into such a world was taking its toll.

But after a simple prayer by one of Bill’s close friends the strength of the Holy Spirit seemed to come to their aid. Christ’s resurrection, in all its power, was reaffirmed in their hearts. They were assured that the future, left in God’s hands, would be just fine.

In July 1970, a healthy baby, Benjamin, was born. Inspired by the miracle of their son’s birth, “Because He Lives” poured out of the Gaither’s grateful hearts. The song clearly affirms the hope believers have in Christ. We can face tomorrow, with all its uncertainty, as we realize that God holds the future and makes life worth living.

“Because I live, you also will live….” Said Jesus to his disciples. What does that say to you and me about our lives? I believe this is the heart of the Christian faith. Christ is alive and because he is alive, we can live lives that overcome every obstacle.

God’s message to each of us is a message of hope; life is worth the living just because he lives.

In His Service,

Pastor Russel