They Loved Not Their lives Even To The Death...

Over the past year, an anthem has emerged out of New Life..."Overcome."

Lastnight, we gathered for the Furnace Christmas banquet. I deeply enjoy each part of the banquet. It's s a delight to feast with my friends and honor students for their accomplishmentis. However, last night was really special.

Again, we talked about Revelation 12:11 "And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, and they did not love their lives to the death." Two teen girls from our youth ministry gave their lives this week. They simply loved Jesus and showed up on a normal Sunday to worship, study the Scriptures and fellowship with believers. Yet, they gave their lives...

We honored them with a Furnace ring with an inscription "For The Lamb's Reward." It's what our graduates receive. It was meaningful.

Only in the west do we consider it strange to be persecuted for Christ. Jesus said that it would happen and even said we were blessed when it did happen (Matt 5).

Rachel and Stephanie were awesome girls that deeply loved God, participated in discipleship, prayer and missions.

The will be remembered. May their lives be an inspiration for each of us to give ALL of our lives. May we finish the race, fight the fight and may The Lamb receive His reward!