We have for far too long portrayed salvation and eternal life as a destination and a reward.  While these are not false images, they fail to capture the concepts that Jesus was trying to communicate.  Our salvation is far deeper than a ticket to heaven.  Eternal life refers to a PRESENT way of living; the Hebrew elam haba (eternal life) refers to a present state, existing in harmony with God.  This state most definitely extends throughout eternity, but is no more real 1,000 years from now as it is today.

 

In light of this, we find great meaning in living in and for today.  We are not simply "hanging out" here. waiting for Jesus to return, trying to get as many converts as we can before He comes.  The power of the cross is not only going to cover us in judgment, but it is going to make me into a better person tomorrow.  In a culture that wants self-help and a quick-fix, we want to enter into God's process of authentic healing.