I’ve noticed that there are seasons when death and dying seem to have center stage. During such times, they demand our attention leading some of us to meditation and careful reevaluation of our times and activities on earth. Questions begin to flood our thoughts:
Am I doing what I am supposed to be doing? How much time do I have left? Is my perspective on this side of life, correct? Do I have my priorities in order? What can I do to better my relationships?
The problem is that for some, the questions come and go quickly without much thought. For others, they become defining moments bringing about new or renewed commitments, diligence in living, and/or letting go of vanities and insignificant activities. As I give thought to death and dying once again, my goal is to live with determination being more sensitive to the Lord, freer in my soul and spirit to be led by His daily will, choosing His way each day.
As I think about those who have passed on, from many years ago to the most recent, relatives, friends, my friends loved ones, and celebs, I want to give honor to their lives as I can almost see them as they made their departure. Looking behind recognizing the vast difference between here and there and the difference in what is priority and the difference in perspective that awaited their steps as some approached The Pleasant Peaceful Pure Place of Presence with our Lord.
Many of you can relate as you have watched loved ones walk away in readiness to “The Place” we all aspire-even the wicked. Some others have gone on suddenly without a plan with loved ones never knowing where their departure landed. “Our times are in His Hand,” if we yield to Him. Otherwise, we kick against the goad spending life on earth in absurdity; taking a path that has no value bringing a sense of void when the door of finality is open.
This is why we, those who are given the task,
must proclaim the Lord and His ways.
In so doing,
Someone will hear! Someone will change!
Someone will make it to the right place,
the place that God has ordained for men;
the place where Jesus has gone to prepare for us
and is peacefully awaiting our time of arrival.
That place where our Lord’s Presence is so steady and real, so strong and abounding with glory! He gives us an occasional glimpse. It’s a glimpse that takes us out of the time and flesh barriers that we live in. It’s a glimpse that restores our hopes and lessens our fears.
Oh Lord, bring me nearer to You! Nearer to Your Heart, that while I’m here, I can feel You and love You and touch others in a way that they, too, will look above!
©2009 Rosalind M. Stanley
