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What the paper doesn't tell you, but we know to be true, is at that moment she entered into the presence of God. Some things are more important than safety—speaking the truth is more important than preserving your life.

The truth is all of us here this morning will die. It may be when we're young; it may be when we're old. But we will die. There will be a day when some pastor or official stands in front of our friends and family and tries to comfort them. At the moment of your death, the only thing that matters is your relationship with Jesus Christ. He is still the last and the best hope for all of us; he is the only one who truly can keep us safe.

That's why in John 16:33 Jesus says, "In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."

Nick Lillo is pastor of Centennial Community Church in Littleton Colorado. This sermon originally appeared in Preaching Today Audio, a monthly sermon resource produced by PreachingToday.com and Christianity Today International.

Copyright © 2001 Christianity Today. Click for reprint information.

Experts Say Spiritual Roots Will Aid in Coping With Catastrophe | Pray and connect with others, advise nation's chaplains.

Fear and Hate | In times like this, as in all other times, Christians have a responsibility to love above all else.

Church Leaders Around World Deplore 'Unspeakable Horror' of Attack | Christians urged to unite in prayer as they unite in shock and denunciation.

See the homepage for Lillo's Centennial Community Church in Littleton, Colorado.

PreachingToday.com is a resource from Christianity Today International.

Christianity Today's coverage of the Columbine tragedy included:

Church, State, and Columbine | Since the infamous massacre, America has been rethinking the role of religion in the public square. (April 20, 2001)

Columbine's Tortuous Road to Healing | One year later, survivor's recovery is filled with painful twists and turns. (April 14, 2000)

Videos of Hate | Columbine killers harbored anti-Christian prejudice (Jan. 26, 2000)

Retailers Marketing Martyrdom to Teens | Littleton Massacre Now Merchandise Opportunity (Nov. 12, 1999)

Cassie Said Yes, They Said No | The mainstream press unquestioningly accepted Salon.com's flimsy 'debunking' of the Columbine confession. (Nov. 1, 1999)

'Do You Believe in God?' | Columbine and the stirring of America's soul. (Oct. 4, 1999)

Tough Love Saved Cassie | How the Bernalls helped Cassie break with old friends and build a new life. (Oct. 4, 1999)

Yancey: Can Good Come Out of This Evil? (June 14, 1999)

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September (Web-only) 2001, Vol. 45