Precious?

There are some passages of Scripture which can cause us to sit up and say, "Hmmm." Sometimes the perspective being read is not quite the perspective we hold. That does not change the truth of the passage. It may simply reflect there is another side to something than what we commonly think. Perhaps this is no more true than our perspectives on life and DEATH. In a real sense, life is short. ( James 4:14) It never seems long enough with those we love. Being involved in ministry and called upon for support within our community I am frequently brought face-to-face with the great sense of loss, sadness and sorrow experienced in the losing of loved ones to DEATH.

Still, in the psalms we read. . .
"PRECIOUS IN THE SIGHT OF THE LORD IS THE DEATH OF HIS SAINTS." ( Psalm 116:15 ESV)

Isn't it life we generally hold onto as "precious"? We look at a newborn baby and say, "How precious." We watch children grow up and say, "How precious." We see loving families and say, "How precious." We see an elderly couple still so much in love with each other and we say, "How precious." All of that is about living. But DEATH . . . "precious"?

Yes, "precious" because DEATH is not the end. For those who live life in a right relationship with God, that relationship carries over into eternity in an even more glorious sense. If we could see clearly now how glorious that is, we (like Paul) would have little desire to resist the departure. (note Philippians 1:23) For those of God, DEATH is the beginning of the greatest glories. It is the beginning of an existence away from all the injustice, pain, suffering, and limitations of this realm. It is eternal life in the glorious presence of God.

As Christians and for Christians we may grieve the loss, but not like those in the despair of no hope. ( 1 Thessalonians 4:14) We know there is more to our existence than momentarily meets the eye. Therefore, may we presently live mindful of our God given purposes for this life while we look forward to the eternal glories to come. There is a sense in which rather than being a curse of this realm, DEATH is a gift that opens the way into the most glorious existence God has in mind for us. Oh, how "precious" are the blessings God has in store for those who love Him.

Have a great day ENCOURAGED BY GLORIES YET TO COME!
Carl

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