As my mom nears the end of her life, things are very difficult. On her especially, but also on us kids as we try to make the right choices for her and at the same time accommodate what she wants.
She and I had one of many difficult discussions yesterday. The subject wasn’t home vs. facility; it wasn’t knee replacement (at age 93) or not; it wasn’t physical at all. It was spiritual.
We talked about death. I asked her if she was afraid to die. I didn’t need to ask, because I know her answer. I’ve always known her answer. Her’s is a yes. She said she’s scared of the unknown in death.
But as Christians we shouldn’t be afraid to die. We’ll be going home!
People say Jesus was afraid and asked God to take it from Him. I don’t believe He was afraid of dying but of the separation from God as He took my sin and yours on Himself. Perhaps He was also afraid of the tremendous pain He knew was before Him from the cross, but I don’t think He was afraid of death itself.
Hebrews 2:14-15 says: Since therefore the children share in flesh and blood, he himself likewise partook of the same things, that through death he might destroy the one who has the power of death, that is, the devil, and deliver all those who through fear of death were subject to lifelong slavery.
Jesus as a human went through exactly what we do when we die, bue He destroyed the one (satan) who had power over it. Jesus delivered us from the fear of death so that all our lives we do not need to fear it!
Over and over in the Bible, God told His people Do not be afraid!
I know what you’re thinking…it’s easier said than done. But that is where our faith comes in. Either you believe God’s promises or you don’t.
Do you believe He keeps His promises? If not, then what is the point of this whole life here?
If you do, then why are you afraid of anything?
What can separate us from Him? (Romans 8) Certainly not death! It brings us to Him!
Nothing can separate us from Him.
Especially not the unknown! There is no unknown….God knows it all!
