This Scripture passage is often used at funerals. It is read to
proclaim in no uncertain terms that even though death can separate us
from our life on earth, that not even death can separate us from the
love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. Not even death will cancel the
promise of God's love granting us the forgiveness of sins and the
gift of eternal life. It is a great comfort to read this at such an
important time.

Today, I invite you to hear the breadth and depth of this passage
that can often be missed when used only at funerals:

1. Life cannot separate us from God's love. Nothing in living your
life can separate you. No part of your sinful human living will
cause God to withdraw the love of Jesus from you.

2. Angels or spirits cannot separate you from God's love. No
spiritual power is strong enough to cause God to withdraw the love
of Jesus from you.

3. The present or the future cannot separate you from God's love.
Nothing that happens today or tomorrow will cause God to withdraw the
love of Jesus from you.

4. Powers above and powers below cannot separate you from God's
love. No force in the entire universe can cause God to withdraw the
love of Jesus from you.

Bringing It Home:
1. If you are fearful that you have done something or may do
something in the future that could cause God's love to be withdrawn
from you, pray the passage above. Ask God to strengthen your faith
in your time of need.
2. Get a card of encouragement for someone who is going through a
time of struggle. Write the Scripture passage above on it and tell
them that you are praying for them.

Prayer:
Lord God, your love is steadfast and more powerful than any force in
all of creation. I thank you and praise your name that I can
confidently give my life over to you. Strengthen my resolve to
submit myself to you. Amen.

John A. Holm
Transforming Church Institute
www.transformingchurch.net