I would guess that the majority of us contemplate death often. We live our lives seeking joy and happiness all the while knowing in the back of our minds that we do not know if we will even have tomorrow. And I suppose knowing that we try not to think about it but it is still there lingering in the backs of our mind. It would be expected that it is a fearful and desperate thought not only because we want to live but we want to be with our loved ones. I cannot imagine not being with my family.

Before Jesus was sacrificed He explained a place of eternity for the saved. He explained a place of peace with no more death or pain.
“He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”
He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” Then he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.” Revelation 21:4-5

It sounds wonderful but I have a fear in my soul that eats at me. I understand salvation. I understand God’s instructions. I know that one day I will be with the Lord and the things of this world will no longer matter. My fear is those that will not meet me there. A relationship with Jesus and a desire to accept and understand God’s word is a personal choice each of us has the free will to do….or not do. I cannot force my child, my parent, or my close friends to just accept. And this is what keeps me sharing. Not because I am required to witness to others for favor of God. I am saved because I have chosen to repent and believe. I post and share my thoughts, understanding and knowledge as I continue to learn because I know those close to me have leaned on my knowledge of other things in life and know that I am not a fool that would lead them in the wrong direction. I pray that they realize that I share as an example of Christ’s child because I want nothing more than to share eternity with them. I have given a lot of thought to these statements that there will be no pain, no hurt, and no crying and my only conclusion is that in order to not miss someone that dies and did not choose the free gift of salvation means that in heaven I will not know or remember them. And as I still live and breathe that breaks my heart and causes me a lot of fear.

As you contemplate your options of choosing to understand or choosing to continue through life by your own will look at those close to you. Your parents, your siblings, your children, your friends. Your choices could quite literally place an expiration on your relationship with them. We know death is coming for each of us. And it is difficult to look at the awe of the world without realizing that there is more beyond our understanding and we should seek knowledge of our creator. We should open our minds to recognize that what we perceive as “supernatural” is not “science fiction.” God lives and God loves us and has promised that we can be together for all time.

Lord I thank you for your promise of eternal life in your presence. An eternity without pain and suffering. I pray that you continue to embrace me with your grace and make your presence evident to those I hold close to my heart so that we may be together after this life. Burden their hearts and minds with a hunger for knowledge. In Jesus’ name, Amen.