If you’ve been reading this blog, you know that life and death continue on. They are inevitable. Only one will be erased.
For most of those around you, the answer would be – life! We are a nation of pracitising existentialists. That merely means that we believe that existence is what counts. Physical, present, tangible existence. When this existence is done – when life is erased, we are erased. I find that one hard to live with! Where is hope? Where is justice, joy, peace, love . . . and a myriad of other human emotions and life giving feelings?
So, I like the other alternative. Death will be erased! My life is worth something here and past here. Those around me are worth something here and past here. As people die, they actually step from one phase of life to the next. The continuationof life brings rewards of justice, joy in the moment and eternity, peace in settledness that life is more than here and now. And the sense of love overwhelming us.
That is, if you have a basis of life that is rooted first of all in Jesus.
I spent most of last week on (and I like your term) a death watch — Garry’s mother was dying. As the end drew closer and closer belief in something better, another place of health and happiness became stronger and comforting. Friday evening, mom took her last breath and made her final transition from here to her home with Jesus. I was with her and stand amazed at the peace felt at that moment and the undergirding peace that is carrying us through the heavy days of grief. Without the basic belief of life with Jesus because of Jesus – well I just do not know how I would cope –
It was truly a blessing to have the honour of being on that watch — moments of light as her faith was reveal – eg. one time when pain was incredible, morphine unable to dull it — she clasped her hands and we prayed — my voice verbalized the prayer – her hands signifying she was also praying.
Now as I pass on the ideas and thoughts of heaven, life and death to my grandchildren, those thoughts will take on greater meaning.
MaryAnne