By Julian Wells

“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” (John 10:10 ESV)

I have quoted John 10:10 probably as often as any other verse of Scripture, whether I was teaching, writing, or just having casual conversations with others. It resonates with me because I see so many Christians who act as though their faith is nothing more than an insurance policy guaranteeing life beyond the grave.

But the blessings of Christian faith include abundant life now- a life lived in a personal relationship with the One who gave his life that we may live eternally with him. That life does not begin at death. It starts the moment we surrender ourselves to the Savior’s loving care. And it is rich beyond measure!

“We are half-hearted creatures, fooling about with drink and sex and ambition when infinite joy is offered us, like an ignorant child who wants to go on making mud pies in a slum because he cannot imagine what is meant by the offer of a holiday at the sea. We are far too easily pleased.” – C.S. Lewis