2 Timothy 4:7-8
I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for His appearing.
It was February 14th Valentine Day – and we received word that my dad had collapsed. We left the evening church service and rushed to the emergency room, arriving before the ambulance. I stood outside the emergency entrance and listened to the eerie sound of the approaching ambulance, knowing that my precious dad was inside.
I looked up into the sky and prayed that the Lord would give me the strength to deal with what the next few minutes would reveal. As the gurney was wheeled past me I saw the lifeless shell of my dad. I knew immediately that he was not here, but he had risen to be with the Lord. What a loss for us but what a victory for him!
The Apostle Paul was in a dark and dreary prison and knew that his life on this earth was almost over. Rather than being fearful or discouraged, he was filled with victory and joy. Earlier he had proclaimed that if he lived it would be to serve Christ and when he died it would be gain. Either way he had joy and contentment.
I found contentment in my dad’s passing as I have with other members and cherished friends who died, but who had been born again. Yes, I was grieved to know that I would not see them again for a little while, but I have the confident assurance that we will meet again never more to suffer separation. What comfort that is!
Blessings dear hearts. Draw near to God today, trust Him completely and be a blessing!
—Pastor Cecil