We who are in Christ are free to live knowing the GOD of all creation knows us and loves us. He guides us as much as we allow Him to, through the conviction of the Holy Spirit and the Word of His testimony.
And when this life is done, where are we going? To our heavenly home. In fact, we are pilgrims, we are passengers, we are aliens of this world. (1Peter 2)
So, then do we cling to life? It’s an odd thing, knowing we are bound for heaven but not seeking it, and dead to this life through baptism and yet very much alive to enjoy one another, to enjoy life.
What do you most enjoy? Rustling of leaves in trees on an autumn day? Twittering of birds in the spring? Snowdrops on your tongue in the wild north? Laughter with friends, or hearing your grandchildren shriek in delight? Or the smell of a wonderful roast beef dinner (or the equivalent for you… considering your culture or your diet)?
What do you savour? What do you miss when it’s gone?
We are more than on the brink of war. Dotted around the globe there has always been war somewhere, but now with the Ukraine and Russia fighting, and refugees escaping in the 100’s of thousands, war is here, in one form or another, in Europe and effecting the globe.
And what about us? Do we fear invasion? Or starvation? or Death?
I remind us all: we who are In Christ, have no need to fear, have no fear of death.
Paul said, “To me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” (Philippians 1:21) As we trust in GOD, His word and His love, we know that we know we will see Him face-to-face one day.
I am not afraid of when that day might be. For if I stay, I am with the family I love. And if I go, I go to the LORD and the the family I once had.
What can we gain if we fear death?
What can we gain if we do not?
Perhaps it is time to live as though this may be our last breath, not in fearing the end but in relishing the present.
Jesus said, “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth… For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Matthew 6)
I have people I treasure here. I have people I treasure who have gone before me. Either way, I trust in the LORD. I shall fight the good fight and continue the race until it finishes, but I will trust the LORD for the timing of the end. And I have peace.