Lent Day 32: Death work, just in time

One of our friends is walking her dad through his funeral program. They're not anticipating the actual day of his death of course, but they're discussing how his memorial celebration will be carried out. What a gift her father is leaving his family.

Scripture tells us to number our days. That life has limits. A dear friend is dying of cancer. Soon she will walk though the door from this life to the next if God does not intervene.

Her days, like mine and yours, are marked out for her from the beginning of time. Consider this: Adam would still be alive if humans didn't have to die. Think about that - every person born ... still alive.

Why do we avoid planning the end of this life? We know it's coming.

God does not guarantee an evening for each morning you or I awaken. One evening or some morning is crossed off your schedule and mine. We'll be dead. (Some days I'm more excited about that than others. Like my father-in-law said, 10 days before he died, "I can't wait! Soon I'll see what I've only believe. How wonderful will that be!")

Here's a question for you: how much do you love your siblings, your husband / wife, or your kids? Have you proved it by writing your will and appointing an executor to prevent a family hassle of apportioning assets and memorabilia? Wouldn't you hate to leave behind a mess that loved ones have to clean up, emotionally and physically? (Or don't you care that much about others? "After all, I'll be gone.")

Here's another question: Are you buildling a worthwhile legacy? How would you like to be remembered once your stuff is out of the way? 

Read more:

*Happy are those whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered. Psalm 32:1 NLT

*In the shadow of your wings I will take refuge, until the destroying storms pass by. Psalm 57:1 NLT

*In Christ we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. Colossians 1:14 NLT

*You have heard of the endurance of Job, and you have seen the purpose of the Lord, how the Lord is compassionate and merciful. James 5:11 NLT

Moravian Prayer: In the shadow of your wings may we take refuge this day in you, Father eagle and Mother hen. As we lean into your enfolding presence, may we feel your heartbeat, the comfort of your nearness, and your life-giving love.

Today, speak again your words of comfort and love, O Christ, saying, “Peace be with you”. May we hear these words in such a way that we are freed to see ourselves and others through your loving eyes. Amen.