Recently I heard of a young woman's passing at the age of 21. Cancer previously in remission came back with a vengeance, and her graduation to glory was sudden and unexpected. The only solace her friends have in this time of loss is the knowledge this woman chose to place her faith in Jesus Christ, having received the Gospel which saves to the uttermost (Hebrews 7:25).
A mate of mine who knew her well spoke about his grieving process, how his mind went to their last interactions, his sorrow and tears. He thought about how in her brief life there are many things she never had the opportunity to experience: to graduate from university, to be married, bear children, or own a home. Despite the sadness, he was able to discover joy in the knowledge her days of pain are over for good, for she had a hope in the Gospel which is greater than a cure for cancer. Because of the assurance provided in the Bible through Jesus, this dear girl now rejoices in the arms of her loving Saviour and lives unfettered by illness or pain forever.
It struck me: even if our days on earth be few, no life is "cut short" after being born again through faith in Jesus Christ. There is nothing more this woman can do on earth, but she made a decision and lived a life which counted for all eternity. Marriages end, children move away, and houses burn to ash, but those who repent and trust in Jesus have eternal security and have accomplished all that matters. "The LORD took her away at work," my friend said. It is immensely painful for all who remain behind, but I am convinced the one taken up in the arms of Jesus is not at all sorrowful. Our Saviour wept when He was brought to the tomb of Lazarus, but mourning was turned to joy because He is the Resurrection and the Life.
A mate of mine who knew her well spoke about his grieving process, how his mind went to their last interactions, his sorrow and tears. He thought about how in her brief life there are many things she never had the opportunity to experience: to graduate from university, to be married, bear children, or own a home. Despite the sadness, he was able to discover joy in the knowledge her days of pain are over for good, for she had a hope in the Gospel which is greater than a cure for cancer. Because of the assurance provided in the Bible through Jesus, this dear girl now rejoices in the arms of her loving Saviour and lives unfettered by illness or pain forever.
It struck me: even if our days on earth be few, no life is "cut short" after being born again through faith in Jesus Christ. There is nothing more this woman can do on earth, but she made a decision and lived a life which counted for all eternity. Marriages end, children move away, and houses burn to ash, but those who repent and trust in Jesus have eternal security and have accomplished all that matters. "The LORD took her away at work," my friend said. It is immensely painful for all who remain behind, but I am convinced the one taken up in the arms of Jesus is not at all sorrowful. Our Saviour wept when He was brought to the tomb of Lazarus, but mourning was turned to joy because He is the Resurrection and the Life.
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