Time is but a vapor. Death is not an option. Preparation is…

My husband has preached a lot of funerals this year. This past week there were 3. Three funerals in 4 days makes one ponder death more than normal. Keeps you constantly checking your relationship with Jesus.

“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life.” – Romans 6:23

We prepare for birthdays, college, weddings, anniversaries, retirement, but few prepare for death. We tend to ignore it’s presence as if ignoring it, makes it not real. We ignore the fact that our never-dying souls have an eternal address and it’s the preparation we do while on this earth that determines where we will spend eternity. Those who do prepare for death often think that making the arrangements ahead of time, and leaving loved ones their earthly belongings, is preparation. However, true preparation is for your soul.

“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.” – Matthew 6:19-20

I’ve had the vantage point of not only attending many funerals, but watching my husband prepare for them. It’s an in-your-face reminder of the need to be prepared. Some are ready for death. Those who followed Jesus, even when it wasn’t easy, have gained their reward in heaven. Tom can then encourage the family as they leave behind their children, grandchildren and loved ones the hope of reuniting one day in heaven. When a Christian dies, the hope of heaven tends to be bigger than the mourning. Attending so many funerals is a constant reminder for me that, just as my mother left me the hope of heaven, I want to leave that same hope for my children and grandchildren during their time of need.

“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith-and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God- not by works, so that no one can boast.” –  Ephesians 2;8-9

Peter tells us how to get the gift of salvation in Acts 2:38 … Peter replied “Each of you must repent of your sins and turn to God, and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. Then you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” If you read that verse – keep reading! He goes on to say this gift is for EVERYONE! I don’t care who you are, don’t let the devil whisper it’s too late, you’ve done so much wrong you can never be forgiven. That’s a lie from the devil! How do I know? The bible tells me so. Gods grace and mercy is bigger than your past, and sufficient for your future.

“And this world is fading way, along with everything that people crave. But anyone who does what pleases God will live forever.” – 1 John 2:17

Time is but a vapor my friends – it’s fleeting – and the minute we are born? We are one minute closer to the death of this earthly vessel. Enjoy this life to the fullest not worrying about death. Death loses it’s sting when you prepare your soul for heaven, and leave behind the hope of heaven for your loved ones where you will spend eternity together, forever.

Are you prepared?…….