HIS-story

Allow me to introduce you to someone incredibly special—Matt Lucas. Matt is a person who embodied warmth, joy, and courage in every aspect of his life. Known affectionately for his radiant smile and a hug that could melt away burdens, Matt’s presence SURELY brought genuine warmth and comfort to those around him.

Romans 8:35-39 "Who will separate us from the love of Christ? Will tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? Just as it is written, 'For Your sake we are being put to death all day long; we were considered as sheep to be slaughtered.' But in all these things we overwhelmingly conquer through Him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the love of God, which is IN CHRIST Jesus our Lord."

Matt had an unmistakable zeal for life, especially for tackling the toughest challenges head-on. He embraced battles with boldness, never backing down, always ready to confront obstacles with unwavering courage and determination. Matt loved people with a whole heart.

Romans 12:10-12 "Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor; not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; rejoicing in hope, persevering in tribulation, devoted to prayer."

But above all, Matt was deeply loved by the one who loves us most—King Jesus. Matt's life was intricately woven into the fabric of God's eternal story, filled with purpose, grace, and profound love. Even during his struggles, Matt remained securely wrapped in the relentless, unwavering love of Jesus Christ, who is unchangeable, unmovable, and whose deep affection for Matt and his family endures forever.

1 Peter 1:3-5 "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to obtain an inheritance which is imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you..."

From time to time, I am sure you find yourself surrounded by a darkness you feel will never lift—a darkness that weighs heavily on your heart, relentlessly whispering lies of hopelessness and despair. You might even feel abandoned, isolated, and engulfed by pain, especially in the wake of loss, like the devastating loss of Matt Lucas.

Romans 5:1-2 "Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we exult in hope of the glory of God."

Today, in honor and celebration of Matt, I bring a different message, one from the depths of our Heavenly Father’s heart—one of profound and unwavering hope. This hope does not deny our pain but meets us exactly where we are, carrying us forward into divine comfort and ultimate healing.

Colossians 2:2 "that their hearts may be encouraged, having been knit together in love, and attaining to all the wealth that comes from the full assurance of understanding, resulting in a true knowledge of God’s mystery, that is, Christ Himself,"

Matt's journey, though painfully marked by a battle with addiction, IS AND WILL ALWAYS BE powerfully wrapped in the redemptive story of Jesus Christ. We remember him not merely through the lens of tragedy, but as someone deeply loved by God, intricately known, and profoundly cherished. Matt's struggles never disqualified him from God’s love or His redemptive power–and never will. Even at his weakest moments, Matt remained within the unbreakable grasp of His divine love.

Romans 5:8 “But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.”

We live in a world fiercely under attack. The enemy relentlessly assaults our minds and hearts, sowing seeds of doubt, despair, and division. Like many, Matt was not immune to these fiery darts of discouragement. He fought valiantly, often silently, bearing burdens many of us can hardly fathom. Yet, the truth remains steadfast—our struggles, no matter how overwhelming, never have the final say. Jesus Christ alone holds that authority.

John 10:10 "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly."

The lies of our culture promise peace and comfort but deliver emptiness and disappointment. They convince us to seek immediate relief through self-protection, self-preservation, and fleeting pleasures. Matt, like so many, encountered the bitter reality behind these empty promises. The enemy's deception is strategic, promising everything yet robbing us of joy, peace, and ultimately, life itself. But know this, God’s truth pierces through this darkness like a brilliant dawn, revealing that true and everlasting comfort is found only in Jesus Christ. Matt is not lost nor forgotten, just the opposite. Matt was found long ago.

Hebrews 4:16 “Therefore let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.”

Today, as we honor Matt’s memory, we simultaneously lift our gaze upward, looking towards the unwavering hope we possess IN CHRIST. This hope does not ignore our sorrow but redeems it. Our Heavenly Father, who experienced profound pain through the sacrifice of His beloved Son, knows intimately our suffering. He walks with us in our grief, sustaining us, comforting us, and whispering reassurance that nothing—absolutely nothing—can separate us from His love.

2 Corinthians 1:3-4 “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction so that we will be able to comfort those who are in any affliction with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.”

We are invited, even amid this tragedy, to embrace our divine calling—to become living testimonies of God’s relentless love and unfathomable grace. In Christ, we find the strength to rise, proclaiming hope in a seemingly hopeless world. We have His Grace, through Christ’s power, to comfort others as we have been comforted. Through us, Matt’s life can become a beacon of hope, illuminating the path towards redemption, recovery, and restoration for millions who battle similar struggles.

2 Corinthians 5:17 “Therefore if anyone is IN CHRIST, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come.”

As we grieve, let us also purpose to celebrate the hope we have IN CHRIST. Let us declare loudly and lovingly that IN CHRIST alone lies the true answer—the only hope that stands eternally secure. His love knows no bounds, and His grace never fails.

Philippians 3:20-21 “For our citizenship is in heaven, from which also we eagerly wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ; who will transform the body of our humble state into conformity with the body of His glory.”

We each have a divine appointment and mission—to shine the radiant hope of Christ into every dark corner, to proclaim boldly and compassionately that death does not have the final victory. Matt’s life, struggles, and even his tragic passing, can be a powerful catalyst for sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

2 Corinthians 5:19 "namely, that God was IN CHRIST reconciling the world to Himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and He has committed to us the word of reconciliation."

Behold King Jesus

Jesus Christ is uniquely qualified as our Savior, Lord, and eternal comforter. Unlike worldly remedies and self-help strategies, Jesus provides permanent and eternal solutions to the deepest needs of our hearts.

Hebrews 12:2-3 "fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider Him who has endured such hostility by sinners against Himself, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.ays be with the Lord. Therefore comfort one another with these words."

When we feel overwhelmed by shame, guilt, or despair, it is Jesus alone who offers genuine rest and restoration. In our brokenness, we are not called to hide from Him; instead, we are invited to run boldly toward Him, confident in His unfailing grace.

Romans 16:25-27 "Now to Him who is able to establish you according to my gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery which has been kept secret for long ages past, but now is manifested, and by the Scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the eternal God, has been made known to all the nations, leading to obedience of faith; to the only wise God, through Jesus Christ, be the glory forever. Amen."

The power of confession and repentance is life-changing. As we humbly acknowledge our failures before God, we experience the profound joy of forgiveness and restoration. The Scriptures reassure us that if we confess our sins, God is faithful to forgive and cleanse us completely. This act of humble confession restores our relationship with God, affirming our true identity and divine purpose.

1 John 1:9 “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

We are encouraged to daily fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith. By consistently directing our gaze toward Jesus, we gain strength and courage to face life's challenges. Jesus provides not just temporary relief but eternal redemption, transforming our struggles into testimonies of His amazing grace and mercy.

Matthew 11:28 "Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest."

Radical Generosity

At the very core of God’s nature is radical generosity, beautifully demonstrated through the giving of His Son, Jesus Christ. God’s generosity is not dependent upon our worthiness or merit; rather, it arises entirely from His character and perfect love. This generosity is vividly displayed IN CHRIST's willingness to leave heavenly riches, humbly entering humanity’s brokenness, and ultimately sacrificing Himself for our redemption

2 Corinthians 8:9 “For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sake He became poor, so that you through His poverty might become rich.”

As followers of Christ, we are called to mirror this radical generosity. This involves selflessly giving of our resources, time, love, and forgiveness, demonstrating the transformative power of God's love to the world around us. Early believers modeled this through extraordinary acts of generosity, sharing freely and caring deeply for one another

Acts 2:44-45 "And all those who had believed were together and had all things in common; and they began selling their property and possessions and were sharing them with all, as anyone might have need."

When we practice radical generosity, we become conduits of God’s grace and comfort. It transforms us internally, shaping us more into the likeness of Christ, and impacts the lives of others profoundly. Just as Jesus' life radiated joy and comfort through generous love and warmth, we too are called to extend God’s grace generously, touching lives and pointing others toward Jesus.

Ephesians 6:23-24 "Peace be to the brethren, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace be with all those who love our Lord Jesus Christ with incorruptible love."

Total Alignment With God’s Will

Total alignment with God's will is foundational to the life of every believer. This alignment requires intentional surrender, humility, and consistent obedience to God’s commands. Jesus clearly taught that following Him involves denying ourselves, taking up our cross daily, and aligning our lives entirely with God’s perfect purposes.

Luke 9:23 "And He was saying to them all, 'If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross daily and follow Me.'"

Barriers such as pride, self-reliance, and worldly distractions frequently hinder our alignment with God’s will. These barriers must be intentionally identified and surrendered at the throne of grace. Only through genuine humility and repentance can we fully embrace the divine calling and assignment placed upon our lives.

John 1:14-17 "And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth. John testified about Him and cried out, saying, 'This was He of whom I said, "He who comes after me has a higher rank than I, for He existed before me."' For of His fullness we have all received, and grace upon grace. For the Law was given through Moses; grace and truth were realized through Jesus Christ."

Practically speaking, alignment with God’s will involves cultivating daily spiritual disciplines such as prayer, scripture meditation, and seeking God’s guidance in all decisions. This daily practice leads us to experience profound peace and clarity, empowering us to live effectively as ambassadors of Christ, fully devoted to His Kingdom and eternal purposes.

Proverbs 3:5-6 "Trust in the Lord with all your heart And do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths straight."

Today, we are given the sacred opportunity to rededicate ourselves wholly to this mission—to ensure Matt’s legacy becomes a profound message of eternal hope rather than one of final despair.

Colossians 1:27 “Christ in you, the hope of glory.”

Let us remember Matt as one deeply loved by God, eternally secure in His arms. And let us be those who carry forth this living hope, declaring with confidence and courage that our Father’s love IN CHRIST is stronger than death, greater than our failures, and infinitely deeper than any sorrow we bear.

Romans 16:25-27 "Now to Him who is able to establish you according to my gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery which has been kept secret for long ages past, but now is manifested, and by the Scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the eternal God, has been made known to all the nations, leading to obedience of faith; to the only wise God, through Jesus Christ, be the glory forever. Amen."

May we, inspired by Matt’s life and legacy, become unstoppable messengers of the eternal hope found only IN CHRIST.

Our Call to Action

Today, as we honor Matt, let us rededicate ourselves to the eternal mission of sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Matt’s life, challenges, and even his tragic loss can inspire and empower us to proclaim boldly that death and despair are not final. In Christ alone, there is hope, restoration, and eternal victory.

Let us commit to the following clear and actionable steps:

Daily Confession and Repentance: Humbly approach the throne of grace daily, receiving mercy and strength.

Practice Radical Generosity: Intentionally look for opportunities to sacrificially give of your time, resources, and love to those around you.

Seek Total Alignment with God’s Will: Daily surrender your will, seeking guidance and strength through prayer and meditation on Scripture.

Share the Gospel Boldly: Commit to actively sharing the transformative power and hope found in Jesus Christ with others.

May Matt's story inspire us to live fully in our divine calling, serving as beacons of hope and messengers of God’s unshakable love. Together, inspired by Matt and strengthened by Christ, let us move forward in faith, courageously declaring the eternal hope found only IN CHRIST.

Colossians 1:27 “CHRIST IN YOU, the hope of glory.”

As we conclude, let these profound truths sink deeply into your heart: You are never alone or without hope. Jesus Christ, full of grace and truth, came to dwell among us, providing grace upon grace and revealing the beautiful mysteries of God (John 1:14-17, Ephesians 3:3-6).

Through King Jesus, we confidently approach the throne of grace, receiving mercy and divine help precisely when we need it most (Hebrews 4:16). Even in our suffering, we hold fast to the promise that the God of all grace will Himself perfect, confirm, strengthen, and establish us for His eternal glory in Christ (1 Peter 5:10).

Rejoice, for nothing remains hidden from those who belong to Him—Christ Himself is our hope of glory, dwelling richly within us (Colossians 1:27, Colossians 2:2,9, Deuteronomy 29:29, Amos 3:7, Matthew 13:11).

Present your lives wholeheartedly to God as a living and holy sacrifice, continually renewed in mind and spirit, fully aligned with His perfect will (Romans 12:1-3).

May you experience profound comfort and peace, encouraged that even death has no final victory, for our Lord Himself will descend to gather us, ensuring that we will forever be with Him (1 Thessalonians 4:16-18).

Grace, peace, and incorruptible love to all who cherish our Lord Jesus Christ (Ephesians 6:23-24).

With deep love and unshakeable hope,

Your Family IN CHRIST