October 9, 2020
A Good Death |
As happens at my age, another friend passed away and entered into the presence of Jesus. Death did not come unexpectedly. At 90 years old he had a long life. But then again, death in some ways is both unexpected but not unnatural, for in our fallen and finite condition death is, as we say - “one for one” except for Enoch. We seem to have little control over the length of our life, so it seems wise to focus on the breadth and depth of our life. But one day, “that day” will come. The dash on the tomb stone is the great equalizer. The term euthanasia means “Good-Death.” Is there such a thing? I believe there is, and it is dependent upon two considerations. First, it involves taking care of the past. This has to do with our humanity, our horizontal life on earth, and our relationships with people. It also requires us to accept our own humanity and our humble limitations that are at its very core. This allows us to go to our grave with a sense of peace knowing, “as far as it depends on you be at peace with all men.” The second has to do with taking care of your future. This is your vertical relationship and has to do with the Lord and His deity. There is more to life than this life, for the grave is not the end, but the transition to transformation. The Bible reminds us that “it is appointed for man to die once and then comes judgment.” Jesus said that there is a resurrection to life and a resurrection to judgment. (John 5:29) Jesus is the life, and to know Him is eternal life. The way we take care of the future is to receive in the present, the free gift of eternal life that Jesus offers to those who will believe. My days are numbered and so are yours. Have you taken care of your past relationships? If not, work on your humanity. Do you have a safe and secure future? If you received the gift of eternal life through faith alone in Christ alone, you are all set. Depend on His Deity. Serving Him with you until He comes for us, Fred Chay |