Brethren in Bombay witnessed a remarkable funeral last week. The large crowd that attended the service quietly but powerfully testified, beyond doubt he lived a true Christian life. Bear in mind, he was not a preacher or a well known personality as such, yet as the dear ones and friends began to recollect the sweet memories of this child of God, it was indeed a challenge to one and all. One brother wondered, what would be the response of my dear ones as I would end up in a coffin one day!
Be wise
Brethren, shall we not consider this truth that we have to leave this world sooner or later. When we know death is universal, inevitable and an appointment by God, how can we neglect this vital reality and spend our days carelessly. Remember the prayer of Moses, So teach us to number our days that we may gain a heart of wisdom. Psalm 90:12.
It is wisdom to number our days. Each day is Gods gracious gift to prepare for eternity. How strange this is: man is careful to make necessary arrangements with financial institutions to secure the future of his dependents, in case of an accidental death, yet they dont consider securing the future of their own life after death. Many have tried to comprehend the attitude of man, soon after leaving the graveyard; he just forgets the issue of death till he goes to cemetery again!
At least three things we must consider as we apply the wisdom of Moses.
1. Be saved.
Make sure that our sins have been forgiven and we are reconciled to God. Merely knowing about Christ or the things of the Bible is not enough. We need a personal relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ who took our sins, died, buried and rose again from the dead. Trusting and acknowledging Him as our personal saviour and Lord alone can make us the children of God. Cf. John 1:12, 13; 5:24; Romans 10:9, 10.
2. Be Godly.
Experience of personal salvation and the assurance that one is a child of God is definitely a big deal. Nevertheless that is not enough as far as our practical life is concerned. We need to lead an ideal godly life. God wants us to be His witnesses by an upright and an unblemished life.
Remember, though it is not bad to be known for our activities and clever ideas, the most touching and influencing factor is a testimonial life. A pure life commands much power. The fragrance of such life goes beyond time or space even if they are unknown to many during their lifetime.
How do we influence our family, society and the fellow believers? What do they learn about us as we move with them?
3. Be punctual.
Appreciate life and complete our duties in time. In view of eternity our earthly life is too short. Never forget that it is the time to prepare for our life after. We should gratefully consider that God in His grace extends our days and gives enough opportunity to know and live for Him.
In Acts 13: 36 we have a very significant statement about David. For David, after he had served the purpose of God in his own generation, fell asleep and was laid with his fathers and saw corruption. (ESV) Rick Warren the author of the famous book, The purpose driven life says many years ago this verse challenged him so much that totally transformed his life.
We too should be encouraged to live and fulfill the purposes of God for which He has kept us here and gladly enter in to our rest. What a blessed experience it would be if we can say with Apostle Paul, The time of my departure is at hand. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 2Timothy 4:6, 7.
Conclusion
As often we say, it is not how long we live, but how we live that matters the most. A true Christian never fears death, on the contrary he longs for it. It is the precious moment of home call. They are zealous in the work of God; complete their responsibilities and keeping themselves pure from the evils of this world. Godly believers with full of hope; look forward to the day of seeing their Lord whom they love and to be with Him forever.
Dear reader, when death shall knock at the door one day, what would be your reaction?
