We live by faith and not by sight... 2 Cor 5:7

I read 2 Corinthians 5:1-11 and stopped to consider the words. I suffer chronic back pain and during very high pain levels these words ring very true. I get very excited at the thought of a new body without the spams and pain. Then I reflect on verse 11, it is because I know of the love God has for us (me) and I know there is a place in heaven which He has promised (vs 5) and that I strive to tell others of Him. The New Living Testament uses the words “God knows we are (I am) sincere, and I hope you know this, too” (vs 11).

That is the purpose of this newsletter, this website and my teddy bears which are a reminder to me to receive the kingdom of God like a little child (see Mark 10:15). Sometimes I get so focused on my life, the bills, pain, and life as “an adult” that I forget God is in charge, that He will never leave nor forsake me (Hebrews 13:5).

Teddy bears may not be the reminder in your life. If not I encourage you to seek Him out in a way that will serve as that reminder. There are different ways God works in our lives, but it is the same God who does the work through all of us (1 Corinthians 12:6). How does He work in your life? What pain are you experiencing that will be removed with your new body?

Our lives in this world will not be without pain. It also will not be without comfort if we seek Him for Jesus came so that we would find comfort. John 16:33 promises this. I use the teddy bear as a physical reminder of this and of His pledge in Matthew 28:20 that He is with us always.

I am compelled to encourage you that Christ died for all, that includes me and it includes you. He did not stay in the grave, God raised Jesus from the dead. (2 Corinthians 5:14-15) That is why we are here, that is why we may suffer, that is why we live, and His resurrection is our promise of an eternal life in heaven.

I am therefore Christ’s ambassador, as though God were making his appeal through me. I implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God (2 Corinthians 5:20). Do not look to me for perfection, there is only one perfect man. His name is Jesus. I pray you may, however, see His Light when you look at me.

Awaiting my heavenly body and praying for you until we meet in heaven,

BearyAnn, a citizen of heaven (Heb 13:14) straining toward what is ahead (Phil 3:13) ; bearing witness of Christ (Jn 1:7) anxiously awaiting His return (I Cor 1:7)

An ENCOURAGING Idea: I recently heard from someone who had received a basket with Bearnabus Bear and Journal. Recently diagnosed with cancer and is preparing to begin treatment. Her mother took the journal to the church and asked family and friends to each write on one page some things that they found encouraging. Each story would be personal. Like a “daily inspirations” book, she can now read stories and encouragement and hope from those close to her.

He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When others are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us. 2 Cor 1:4