One of the funeral homes in our little city has the following sign by the street where its driveway begins. “Funeral Home. Not a thruway.” Right they are. It’s not a thruway it’s a dead end. The guest of honor never leaves alive. But wait. Is that always true? Jesus spoke of death as a sleep. See John 11. In I Thessalonians Paul spoke of a great trumpet blast at a day of resurrection when the sleepers will awaken and all the promises Jesus made will come true.
I’m thinking I should have my wife put a sign on my cement sarcophagus with one of the following messages, “Just passing through” or maybe “Shhh, sleeping.” “He loved naps.” “If you thought he looked good today just wait until the next time you see him.” “And now for the main event.” I’m thinking I should video tape my own funeral sermon. That way I can make sure the stories that are told about me are made up by me.
We are on a great journey. The destination is unknown, even for those who trust Jesus. Scripture says, “Eye hath not seen nor ear heard the wonders that await us.” In Ephesians 2 Paul tells us God will spend eternity showering us with gifts of grace because it makes Him happy. It is His pleasure. This is not for the timid nor the cowardly. It is for the brave who seek to learn, to explore, to grow, to contribute, to serve and to love. When couples marry they embark on an unknown journey. When we unite ourselves with Jesus the journey that follows is totally out of this world. Death is but a thruway.
Written by Roger Bothwell on April 11, 2014
Spring of Life, PO Box 124, St. Helena, CA 94574
Rogerbothwell.org