In the past few weeks I have dealt with a number of families who are grieving the death of their loved ones. From a just-conceived baby to an 81-year-old great grandmother, the sting of death has been felt. Although death is a part of life, we don’t seem to do well at preparing for it.
While leading home-going (funeral) services I sometime ask this question: “In the midst of life, we are in death; from whom can we seek help?” I go on to answer the question by quoting scripture: “Our help is in the name of the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.” (Psalm 124:8). If death has not been a part of your family’s experience, I am sure you know someone who had to deal with it. Death is simply a part of the human experience.
The reality of death should cause you to live your life in a prudent, practical, and purpose-driven manner. Each of us should prepare for the inevitable, even when it seems impossible. And the sooner, the better. Here are some questions to help with your preparation.
1. Will death be the end of me? This is the most important question, and the answer can be “No”. “Jesus said…“I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die.” (John 11:25-26). Believe in Jesus, and you will be most prepared for death.
2. Have I done my best to help my family deal with my departure? If you have resources, set aside some of it to care for your home-going. Make a will. Write down instructions and let someone know where they are. Regardless of your age, everyone should ask and answer this question in a way that suits your situation.
3. What legacy will I leave when I die? Relationships and resources help extend legacies. Pay attention to how you live with and amongst people. Engaging in activities that are positive and productive, can extend your legacy. Being a voice for the voiceless, fighting for a more equitable and just society, and using your energies and resources to help others, are all means of leaving a legacy.
Your resources can also extend your legacy. Set up a foundation. Include in your will a gift to an important cause or charity. Leave a gift for your church. Legacy giving is a way to continue to support what’s important to you, even when you are not here anymore. Your action today can have a great impact tomorrow. That is what Jesus did over two thousand years ago, and his legacy lives on. “If you declare with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” (Romans 10:9).
Become a part of the legacy of Jesus; it is the best way to deal with death and dying.
Wisdom for Your Week
Having faith in the God of life will remove the sting of death.
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