A Real Discussion About Death

It has been a very interesting time as we have been faced with the reality of death. We have been trapped in our houses. Asked to wear masks so that the deadly virus doesn’t spread. There have been a variety of responses to all of this. Fear, anger, and despair have been some of these, but also a coming alongside of those in need and a rallying of humanity for those on the front lines. For most of us though, this has been a time where we have been faced with the truth that death could come at any time and we just can’t escape it. That may sound silly, because of course we know this in our heads, but up until this point, we could pretend that our reckoning was a long time away, and we could think about matters of eternity at a later date. We could numb any thought of death with busyness, Netflix and a busy work life. But now, we have been thrown into this new way of living, which involves looking at death everyday. So, how will we respond? I asked some friends to reply to the question, are you afraid of death? The answers were real, raw and full of passion. Some felt excited about the prospect of heaven waiting for them, a place where there would be no more pain or suffering, but instead, a new body and a new earth. Many were concerned about leaving children and loved ones behind. Others were just not sure what really awaited them in eternity. The Bible is very clear about heaven in Revelation chapter 21. Heaven will be a place where there will be no more crying, suffering or pain. We will be with God our loving Father surrounded by His love. The question is however, what about those we leave behind? The answer is trust. Like Abraham who brought his son to the altar because he trusted in God no matter what, we too must develop our trust in God. This does not come easily! Many characters in the Bible struggled with this, just like we do everyday! But trust is like a muscle, we have to exercise it. When I am faced with fear or doubt, I talk to God about it. I’m real with Him. I have learned, He can handle it. Reading God’s words everyday helps me to put into perspective the big issues like death and dying. Saying a prayer like, “You are God and I am not”, helps me to release control and exercise my trust muscle. How can I be sure that I will be in heaven when I die? The answer is, for those who have placed their trust in Jesus Christ as the one who paid for their sin, He promises that nothing will separate them from the love of God. We cannot achieve heaven on our own efforts or good works, but we must only rely on Jesus’ payment for our sin on the cross. Today, won’t you place your trust in what Jesus did for you on the cross? Don’t try and earn your spot in heaven. It can’t be done. Jesus did it for you, so all you have to do is receive the free gift of your eternity by saying, Yes! Dear friends, I pray that as you navigate through these times, you take these precious moments to read God’s word and talk to Him. You will not be disappointed.

Reading Revelation 21 :1 - 8 and 1John 5:13 -15

Much love,

Melissa