Thread by @Bezner

Thread:

Part of my job entails regularly being with people when they have recently discovered death is impending, when they are close to death, and, occasionally, when they are literally dying.

This morning I called a woman who is very close to dying.

Her husband answered the phone. I asked him how they were doing, and his response was beautiful: "Pastor, people need to know that the grace of God is more sustaining than they might ever imagine it being. We are sustained and encouraged."

I asked, "What is your schedule today?"

He responded, "We are going to look at a cemetery plot to make sure it is what we want." And then he chuckled.

"Pastor, there is no fear in death for us. Many are confused by our attitude. But we are not afraid."

Miraculous, honestly.

Then I asked to speak to his wife.

She took the phone. Her voice trembled, not from fear, but from physical weakness.

I asked if she would allow me to come by today.

Her response: "I would love for you to come by and pray with us. But I want you to know, Pastor, I am not afraid.

The Lord has us."

I don't want to pretend that every single member of my congregation responds in this way.

But this sort of response is more common than you might think.

Imminent death has a way of clarifying your theology.

Do you truly believe you will leave this world and enter another?

The responses can vary widely, to be sure, but I have seen enough at the bedsides of dying people to tell you that my faith has only been strengthened by the sacred ministry to the dying.

I've seen dying have visions of loved ones, of Heaven, of the Lord calling them home.

You, of course, do not have to believe me. And you are welcome to explain those sorts of things away.

But at 43 years of age, as mortality becomes more of a reality every single day, I am hopeful that when my time comes I will be able to grieve my mortality and then be fearless.

The Resurrection is baffling and beautiful. Many understand the cross--the need for forgiveness makes sense in most quarters.

But the doctrine I savor is the Resurrection--that my Jesus has conquered death and will one day usher me into an arena beyond death, as well.

Ministry to the dying is sacred.

But it is also a bracing reminder that my moment is coming.

As is yours.

I hope when your moment comes, you will be able to be as fearless, as well.

Such is Resurrection hope. Such is Resurrection courage.