When you’re not afraid to die, you’ll be free to live.
Last night, one of our newest church members went to be with the Lord. His death was sudden but expected because of an unrepairable issue with his heart. I had the privilege of spending time visiting with him several times over the last few weeks. What struck me was his level of joy in the face of imminent death. There was a constant stream of doctors, nurses, and specialists buzzing in and out to check on him. But his laughter made it feel a lot more like a hangout for family and friends than an ICU room in a hospital. On my first visit, Richard laughed and said, “I know I’m going to die soon, and I’m ok with that. But I wouldn’t mind hanging out here a little longer.” He loved his life and his family, but he wasn’t gripped by the fear of losing them. He was present and able to enjoy the moments God was giving him with his family and every other person who came through his door. His last days were more like a retirement party than a death watch. Spending time with him inspired me. It reminded me that our time here is short and valuable, but it isn’t all we have. We are travelers here, but this isn’t our home. We’re just passing through on our way to a better place. When our number is called, we can embrace our last days with joy and gratitude, with the peace of knowing we are getting ready to ship out to a better place. As humans, we spend so much of our lives trying to figure out how to survive and how to be significant. Jesus has already answered both of these questions for us. Our significance has already been secured because he proved our lives are valuable by giving up his own life to save ours. And we don’t need to stress so much about survival, because his death and resurrection assure us that we will live forever with him. These truths should set us free from being driven and dominated by the worries of this world. They give us freedom be present and aware of our blessings as we pass through toward our homes in heaven. I didn’t know Richard long enough to tell you when these truths became real to him. All I can say is that they were real to him in his last days, and that type of clarity should inspire us all. It’s one thing to rest in peace; it’s another thing to live in it, and Richard was proof that Jesus made it possible to do both. In the end, he wasn’t afraid to die, so he was free to live. Thanks to Jesus, we can all walk in the joy of this type of freedom. So, when the devil tries to pull you into fear, stress, discouragement, or depression, remind him that you’re only passing through. This is just your RV. Your real home is up above; it’s amazing, and there’s nothing he can do to take that blessing from you. I pray these verses help you see the truth, remove your fears, and give you the courage to live your life to the fullest. Because, as my other friend Don the Vet says with a laugh, “The doctors told me I have cancer and they can’t fix it. But that’s okay with me. I’m going to live until I die, and not a minute longer.” 📖 John 8:31-32 So He said to the Jews who had believed Him, “If you continue in My word, you are truly My disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” 📖 John 14:2-3 In My Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and welcome you into My presence, so that you also may be where I am. 📖 Philippians 1:22-23 But if I go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. So what shall I choose? I do not know. I am torn between the two. I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better indeed 📖 2 Corinthians 5::7-8 For we walk by faith, not by sight. We are confident, then, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord. 📖 Joshua 1:9 Have I not commanded you to be strong and courageous? Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go. 🙏🏻 Before you start your day, take a moment with Jesus. Thank him for not only promising to care for you in this life but for also going ahead of you to prepare a place for you in the next one. Live strong and courageous because he not only has this life in his hands, he has your retirement from this life taken care of too. If you're looking for a community to share life with, you're invited to join us at The Beat Church. We have a convenient location near highway access and our church family is spread all throughout Austin, Cedar Park, Liberty Hill, Georgetown, Jarrell, Round Rock, Hutto, Pflugerville, Manor and Elgin, Texas. Blessings and favor in Christ, pastor Andy |
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