What happens when we die?

A PERSONAL PRAYER

God,

It is hard to lose someone you love. I remember when I lost my first friend, Steve, in high school. And my sister Laura a few years later. And my sister Patti. And all of those grandparents I knew and loved. I am grateful that my parents are still alive. I never want to be preoccupied with death – either my own or that of loved ones. I know that you are concerned about growing your Kingdom on earth rather than your children making it to heaven. Nonetheless, I do wonder. Are these people I love with you now? Do they know what is going on with me? Will I see them again? Will I recognize them?

God, I recognize that I will only know the answers for sure on that one day when I experience it all personally. But your scripture gives me assurance that my tomorrow and their tomorrows, my today and their todays, are all in your hands, and I trust you. I look forward to that day when all things are made right and lean into whatever you have in store for me.

In the name of Jesus of Nazareth, who died that death would not have dominion over me. Amen.

SOME THOUGHTS TO SHARE
This Sunday, we begin a new sermon series called “Next?” Over the next three weeks, we will look at three questions about how Christians view the future. This week, November 3, which is All Saints Sunday, we will talk about heaven, asking the question: “What happens when we die?” Next Sunday, we discuss, “How can I stay hopeful?” Then, on November 17, we will conclude with “What happens at the very end?”

If you have not had the opportunity to make a commitment to our “Giving with Gratitude” generosity campaign to support the ministries of St. Luke’s for 2020, you can do so here.

Did you miss last week’s message, “Let ‘er Rip” on October 27? Watch it here.

PRAYER CALENDAR
Sunday, November 3
Heavenly Father, we thank you that we have the freedom to gather and celebrate your love today. Be with those we carry in our minds and our hearts, gracing each of them with your healing and protecting those traveling or serving in harm’s way. And in our joys, let us always remember to glorify you with thankfulness. This we ask in Christ’s name, Amen.

Monday, November 4
Heavenly Father, we thank you for creating honest, meaningful work whereby we can earn a living wage and tithe to support your church. Amen. 

Tuesday, November 5
Lord, we pray for this great nation’s leaders. Give them wisdom and discernment to lead our country. Fill our leaders with your Holy Spirit that they may remember that we are one nation under God. Amen.

Wednesday, November 6
“Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.” Matthew 5:4
Lord, be with all of those mourning loved ones. Let them feel your presence and your comforting arms. Amen.

Thursday, November 7
Dear God, thank you for the St. Luke’s Caring Ministry and the church staff as well as the volunteers who provide tender loving care to those who are in need due to illness, injury, or loss. Amen.

Friday, November 8
Heavenly Father, we pray for the soon-to-be-married, newlyweds, and those who have spent many years together. Let us look to you for guidance during both the good and the difficult times. Amen.

Saturday, November 9
Lord, thank you for this church and the opportunities available to worship you, your Word, and for showing us the path to become true disciples. Amen.