Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. 

Seems to me the entire practice of Christianity hangs on this key idea. I have not seen Jesus in the flesh. I did not witness his life, death, or resurrection. I have not observed the fulfillment of the promise of eternal life. I get that it’s a challenge to have “conviction of things not seen”.

But I have seen the power of the gospel to change people from the inside out, starting with me. The Lord has saved me from the power of sin and death – even though I still sin against God and mortal death will one day visit me. What I mean is that sin and death no longer have the last word. By grace alone, the Lord has given me trust that the promise of eternal life includes me. And you. And all who call on the name of the Lord Jesus. Amen.