THIS MONTH: I would like to tackle a hard topic. This was actually supposed to be included in the start of the series, however I thought it best to wait. So we are now going to rewind to Hebrews 2:5 - 18 and talk about something many of us fear and wonder about - the fear surrounding death and dying (don't run! read it all first- it's not going to be gloom and doom!). The Bible says a lot about this topic in a way that can calm our fears, and give us assurance and encouragement about "what's next".
This topic is one that most people don't want to think about or talk about yet it's something we all experience. I don't want to avoid this topic - it's common to every single person and a reality for every living being. If we think about it, we can trace almost every other fear back to the fear of death. Once we "wrangle" with death and put it in it's proper place, then perhaps we can truly live! So whether you're brave and ready, or reluctant and fearful to talk about this hard topic, I hope everyone will join in the discussion as we tackle such questions as:
Why are we so afraid?
What exactly are we afraid of?
What does the Bible say about it?
If it happens to everyone and is natural, why does it seem so wrong?
Why don't we want to think about it or discuss it?
There are so many positive and joyful truths surrounding this topic in the Bible! Talking about it can remind us that it is not "the end", but rather the beginning. The Bible describes an amazing life after this one! Thinking about it can give us a healthy urgency to make the most of this life and to grow deeper in our relationship with God. Talking about it openly can give us hope rather than fear. So although it can feel like a heavy topic for a Saturday morning, I am looking forward to opening the door, opening the Bible, and talking about it with all of you!
Please join us for Bible study on Saturday, July 9th at 9:00 am. We will continue perusing through the book of Hebrews with the theme of "hoping for something better" Our focus throughout this study will be about not just going through the motions of religion, but enjoying something authentic. We will be discussing how to apply the truths we see in the book of Hebrews to real-life issues such as guilt, shame, disappointment, hardship, unhealthy obsessions, personal ambition, and fear of death.
Please feel free to bring breakfast food for yourself or to share - hot or cold - quiche, muffins, yogurts, granola bars, donuts, fruit, etc., or you can bring nothing at all. Coffee, tea, water, and hot chocolate will be available. If you would like anything else to drink, please bring it with you. We can eat as we chat. I am planning to meet for about an hour. Of course if there's really good discussion, it could go longer, but you can plan on everything concluding between 10:00 and 10:30.
I am looking forward to this discussion! If you have a Bible you can bring it. All of the verses will also be printed out on your outline. If you would like to bring food, please do, but all you actually need to bring is yourself! See you there! :)