(Credit: Sam Foss)

This past Saturday I officiated a funeral at 11AM and wedding at 5PM.  In the days leading up to the two events, I was overwhelmed again and again with thankfulness for the gospel I have been called to preach.

Here’s a portion of the message I delivered at the funeral for a faithful man, church member, and deacon.

Jesus told his disciples, “Do not let your hearts be troubled.”  

Unfortunately, many of us suffer from heart trouble. No, I’m not referring to a medical condition. Many of us let things of this world wear us down. Finances, the workplace, unrealized dreams cause us heart trouble. On a day like this one, the loss of a loved one gives us reason for heart trouble. The loss of a friend gives us reason for heart trouble.

Yet, Jesus instructed the disciples and he instructs us, “Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, trust also in me.” Jesus was not being insensitive in his statement. Rather, his words carried great wisdom. Jesus knew he was returning to Heaven to sit at the side of the Heavenly Father. And at the Father’s side Jesus waits for us to join him.

When a person realizes they have a place in Heaven next to the Savior of the World and the Heavenly Father, they live with a sense of hope. And hope is a great cure for heart trouble.

Perhaps you are like Thomas and ask, “Where is this place? How can we know the way?”  Well, Jesus answered that question. He clearly stated, “I am the way and the truth and the life.”

Do not let your hearts be troubled for Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life.

Thank God, truly thank God, for hope.