1 Corinthians 15:57-58 (NIV) says, “But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.”

The church remains a moving force, and as part of the body of Christ you and I are called to be steadfast and immovable and firm in Him.  Always abounding in the good work that the Lord uniquely created each of us to do. Not as reluctant leaders, but as ones who are strong and of good courage for “the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

John 16:33 says, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world”.

This passage of scripture can be interpreted in several ways – as a multifaceted victory as well as a continuous one. Either way, it means we are to strive to overcome the temptation to care more about “the things of this world” rather than “the things of God”.  For me, this is an ongoing battle, and worth regularly reminding myself. Basic trust in Christ Jesus remains at the center of how we overcome the world, as we constantly denounce deception in ourselves and all around us. 

It’s good to remind ourselves, “How did Jesus overcame the world?”  He defeated Satan and other supernatural powers of evil, with the ultimate victory coming through His crucifixion and resurrection.  Thanks be to God!

Jesus conquered death and brought forth the gift of life and immortality to light.   Jesus paid the price of our sin so that we may have forgiveness through Him.  This wasn’t anything we earned or deserved. Jesus was resurrected to provide all people His righteousness.  As Jesus demonstrated, “all” includes women and children, slaves, prisoners, and the disabled, just to name a few.

We are all sinners but are saved by His grace as Christians. God freely gives to each of us continually. Giving is part of His character and can be interwoven throughout our lives as well. His giving to each of us remains unceasing, and He is victorious over all things.

I want to take this opportunity to thank each of you for your inspiring support of the Christian Ophthalmology Society throughout our past 49 years of existence. You have been key to driving remarkable progress with your contributions over the years, and we thank each of you for your heartfelt generosity and support. “To God be the glory!”