Dead people refuse to answer questions.
When I am asked to speak at a funeral, the deceased can’t tell me what he would like for those who loved him to remember. Since that isn’t possible, a usually ask a few family members if there is anything that they would like for me to mention. Wouldn’t it be great, though, if those who have departed this life could speak for themselves?
What is true of all those who have passed away will be true of me when I breathe my last breath. The time for sharing my heart with those closes to me will be over. So, just in case I never get another shot at this here are a few things that I want people to remember when I am gone.
When I’m gone remember that I am not really gone at all. My body may be lifeless, but I am not for my life in Heaven is just beginning. In fact, I am more alive than I have ever been and am experiencing eternal rest in the arms of my Lord. I’m not gone; I just went home.
When I’m gone remember that my entrance into Heaven was not based upon my goodness, but upon my acceptance of the free gift of salvation given to me by Jesus Christ. Anything good in me is because of Him. Anything good I have done is because of Him. Any good memory you have of me is because of Him. Without Christ I would have been a nothing with nothing who did nothing. I owe everything to Him.
When I’m gone remember that I tried. I’ve not been perfect. I’ve not always said or done the right things. My failures have been plenty. But I tried. I tried to listen to God, to follow His will, to preach His Word, to love my family, and to serve His church. I’ve tried to live life by loving God and loving people. There have been plenty of bumps along the road, but it was a good journey with Christ as my companion.
When I’m gone remember that Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life. It is only through Him that anyone can have both abundant and eternal life. If you know Jesus as your Savior, I will see you again. If not, you can be saved today. Don’t wait.
When I’m gone remember, my dear family, that I love you. Thank you, Kristy, for your love, encouragement, and sweetness. Your compassion for others is astounding and your beauty is unmatched in my eyes. Kids, thank you for the opportunity to be your Daddy. I pray that you have learned from me to love God and love people. Keep the faith. Mom, thank you for always loving me and being concerned for my well-being; your support helped keep me going through hard times. Dad, you are my hero and always have been. One of the greatest gifts given to me from God has been the privilege of watching your consistent example of humble service to Christ. And to the rest of my family and friends, thank you. I hope that I have enriched your lives as much as you have enriched mine.
By the time you read this words, I could already be gone. No, I don’t have a terminal disease or anything. But, in a sense, we are all terminal; death awaits each of us. Whether we die soon or live to see the next century, all of us will one day be gone and it could be sooner rather than later.
Are you ready? One day…you’ll be gone.
The Seeking Pastor 