What Kobe Bryant Taught Us
By now most of America has heard the news. Even if you aren’t a sports fan. The sudden death of NBA superstar Kobe Bryant has dominated headlines. In fact, it seems his sudden death has grabbed the hearts of so many. I think I know why and it has little to do with basketball.
One, Kobe was only 41 years old. His daughter Gigi was only 13 years old. Both seemed to have lots of life in front of them. Until the helicopter they were riding suddenly crashed killing them and 7 other passengers. The others on board were ages 13, 14, 38, 45, 46, 50, and 56. None of these folks believed death was just ahead.
Two, sometimes we think celebrities are invincible. Surely there fortunes and fame will protect them. Yet, it doesn’t matter how much money you have in the bank. It doesn’t matter if you’re flying first class or last. Death is no respecter of age, position, finances, or fame. Death can come like a thief in the night for anyone at anytime.
Three, it just doesn’t seem right. Honestly, many deaths never seem right. Life and death is not in our hands. Only God knows our birth date and our eternal transition date. It often takes us by complete surprise. However, nothing takes God by surprise. He always sees the bigger picture.
Now, hopefully all that were on board that helicopter were prepared to meet their maker. Sadly, none of them will be given a second chance. What about you and me? Are we living like we’re dying? Are we more prepared for a Super Bowl party than for where we might spend eternity?
Honestly, no man knows the day or hour. Today, could be your last chance to get things right with God. I can promise you this my friends. One day we too will die and give account of ourselves to God. All that will matter is two things. One, did you know Jesus as your personal savior and Lord? Two, did you seek to live this life your way or God’s way?
Honestly, I too am saddened by Kobe Bryant’s passing. For some reason it feels like a dear loved one has suddenly passed away. I guess basketball just gave him a huge platform. In this life, Kobe taught many the game of basketball. Through his sudden death he taught us all we better have an eternal plan in place. For this life is very short. Eternity will last for forever.
“Now listen, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.” Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, “If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.” James 5:13-15
“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Matthew 6:19-21
“Each person is destined to die once and after that comes judgment.” Hebrews 9:27
“ I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life.” 1 John 5:13
Pastor Craig Crosby 