Trainsformers—An Urban Christian JourneySample

YOLO

Efrain A.

As a child, I often thought I’d die young. I guess that’s just a result of growing up in the hood, seeing many of my childhood idols disappear from the block. I’m talking about guys like Goofy David, an exceptional trick-bike rider—and this was before BMX bikes existed. He taught me to ride my 10-speed through the hood of New York City without touching the handlebars. 

Guys like Tiger, my karate sensei, who taught me to stand up and protect my neck. Guys like Johnny, who was the fastest, strongest, and coolest guy on the block. He was so cool he only had one name. He was so cool I wanted to change my name to Johnny! Mom wasn’t happy. 

Urban legend has it that these guys all died early, from drug use or some other illegal activity. But growing up, I idolized them and I thought they’d live forever. I dare say they thought they’d live forever too. They sure acted like they were invincible. But the Bible tells us that we all die once. If you think about it, every day that you’re physically living, you’re also dying. 

The good thing is that you really do only die once, but you can live twice. Once in your natural life, and again with the new and never-ending life that God gives each of us when we trust in Christ. No YOLO (you only live once) over here! 

I would dare to say that once you have understood that what you decide here on earth has a consequence in your next life, your priorities change completely. You will start focusing on storing up treasures in heaven. You will dedicate your life to be rich towards God, since your inheritance is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you. 

But the best part of this good news is that we can start enjoying the benefits of our inheritance right now. Haven’t you been forgiven? Haven’t you been reconciled to God? Do you live in peace and enjoy having fellowship with your Father? Do not take all of this for granted.

As I write, I pray that you would recognize God’s love for you—he loves you so much that he made a way to give you a new beginning and a new life. Live accordingly!

Prayer

Father, help me to see life through the lens of eternity. Teach me to be rich in you, to focus on the spiritual inheritance you have laid up for me in heaven. Jesus, thank you for loving me and for giving your life for me on the cross. Help me to share the gospel with those in need. Holy Spirit, guide me in my journey towards heaven. In Jesus’s name. Amen.