The Voice

Building One Another - Vol. 10, No. 21
Dear Friend, Every voice is unique. You are the only person in all of time and eternity who sounds just like you. When I remember the voice of my parents and grandparents and many others I have known and loved, I can hear them speak in my head and every one of their voices is distinct and precious. When you close your eyes for the last time, when you breathe your last breath it would be a grace that the last words you hear are the words of one who loves you. My question is what sound do you want to hear next? What do you look forward to? What do you want to happen at the moment of physical death? Jesus speaks directly to this unique moment:     “Very truly, I tell you, the hour is coming, and is now here,     when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God, and     those who hear will live.” John 5:25*     “Do not be astonished at this; for the hour is coming when     all who are in their graves will hear his voice.” John 5:28 The refrain of Chris Tomlin’s song, “I Will Rise” begins with these words, “And I will rise when He calls my name.” I know what I look forward to and that is hearing the voice of Jesus call my name. That moment you hear his voice is the happiest moment of your life! My prayer is that you will hear his voice even now – through his Word (the Bible) and as the Spirit of God speaks to your heart.  “My sheep hear my voice. I know them, and they follow me.” John 10:27
With joy - E. Stanley Ott Copyright 2011 E. Stanley Ott  *Scripture from the NRSV
To view archived issues and to subscribe:  www.buildingoneanother.org