Almost half of 2013 is gone. I knew I wanted to start this year giving thanks to God and reflecting on what he has done for me. It's been 32 years since a high school classmate in Honolulu explained to me that Christ died for me because his love was great for me, and so that I may be rescued from the consequences of sin. When I surrendered my life and gave my heart to Jesus as savior and Lord, I received such a peace that I knew my life would never be the same.
For my birthday in February, I stayed at a friend's condo in Lihue, Kauai. It was a retreat from the normal activity and time set aside to reflect on God and appreciate the beauty of his handiwork. Hawaii seems like paradise. When I think of the word paradise, I sometimes think about one of the thieves on the cross who was crucified with Jesus. He obviously didn't lead a righteous life, but God was kind, gracious, and loving. Because that thief believed that Jesus was the Son of God, and an admitted sinner, Jesus assured him that he will be with him in paradise that day.
I don't know what paradise is like that Jesus was referring to, but I do know that peace with God is paradise to me; the peace of God comes with being friends with God. When trouble comes such as the death of a loved one, the promise of his presence in this life and the next life has given me hope and a peace beyond understanding. My sister and friend, Arceli, passed away at the end of March; a huge loss in my life. The omnipotent, omniscient, everlasting God is with me...and she is in his presence face to face. Her faith becomes sight.
