A Word from David
2011 is here. I’m 52 years old. I hope to live to be 100, which is not completely unrealistic, as there are currently 70,490 American centenarians. If I succeed in reaching my goal, I’m a little over halfway through my life’s test. I’ve got 48 years until I stand before Jesus to give an account.
Statistics tell me, however, that the average life expectancy for American males is about 76 years. If I turn out to be “just an average guy,” I’ve got just 24 years remaining in this body.
If I lived in Nigeria, where the life expectancy is 46, my earthly sojourn would likely have already ended.
Today, 150,000 people on our planet will die, and many will be caught by surprise. So I’d better stay ready to go. Whenever my time arrives, I want to be found faithful in Christ. David wisely prayed, “Teach us to number our days, that we may present to You a heart of wisdom” (Psa. 90:12).
Rejoice as you read this month’s stories of how your compassion is touching the lives of “the least of these” among our spiritual family around the world. You’ve been laying up treasure in heaven. Sooner or later, we’ll be there, and we’ll be glad for every sacrifice—especially the one that Jesus made. — David
This Month's Articles
Strategic Stewardship
Parting Shot: An Illustration About Salvation
As I trailed these bicyclists for miles up a long mountain road in Burundi, I couldn’t help but think of how their faith contrasted with the “works” of the solitary bicyclist on the left who chose to push his bicycle to the top. Their faith, however, still had to work, because they had to hold on, and continue holding on, until their goal was reached! — David
