P.E.W. Perspective

“……I trust that my life will bring honor to Christ, whether I live or die. For to me, living means living for Christ, and dying is even better” (Philippians 1:21 NLT)

Really? Dying is even better? Once again I am faced with an untimely, unexpected death. Not my biological family, but a member of my spiritual family that I loved and respected. Like my son who was only 41, this brother passed before his time. I never would have thought that he would precede me in death, as he was much younger, still worked an active job in law enforcement and was a vital part of our churches outreach programs. And yet he is gone.

My brother lived his life to honor Christ, this much I know. I do also. When I consider the possibility of death, as an older citizen with a degenerative disease, I know that I would choose to keep on living in this life, doing all I can to bring honor to Jesus Christ. and yet, if I die, I know that I will be gloriously happy to see my Savior and Lord. I take comfort in knowing that that is the reunion that is taking place now between my brother and his God.

I am sad that I will not be shaking his hand this morning and asking him how he feels about the NASCAR championship, I will likely shed some tears with his family, but I know that my brother has passed from earthly happiness to eternal joy.

Lord, in times of extreme sadness, help us to always remember the ultimate goal of our lives, to live eternally at your side . Amen.