Pastor Jerry McGhee, Sun Lakes Community Church

In my career as a pastor, I have conducted many funerals, memorials and grave-side services. I wish I had kept a diary of these times, for I have witnessed the best and the worst of human reactions to the death of a loved one or friend. I have witnessed families come together in love and support of one another as they grieved their loss. I have also witnessed division, hostility and even anger among the grieving, which, in the long run, only added to the heartbreaks.

I have found that obedient followers of God who are in relationship with Jesus Christ face the passing of their loved ones, though grieved at their loss, with much more peace and assurance in that they believe they will be reunited at the return of Jesus Christ.

Throughout my younger years, when death or Heaven was mentioned, my mother would respond with, “I’m ready to go, but not anxious to go.” And when asked to explain her words, she would say, “I’m in a right relationship with God through my faith in Jesus Christ and am prepared to face and meet my God, but I want to see my children and grandchildren grow up. I’m ready but not anxious.” But after two years of radiation and other treatments for lung cancer, the pain did its work, and Mom was not only ready to meet her Lord, she became anxious to do so. My mother died knowing she would be instantly in the presence of her God and Savior.

We in Sun Lakes have fewer days ahead of us than we have behind us, and in all our preparation and planning for our future security, preparing to meet God should be at the top of the list. A financial planner is not the one we should consult in regards to meeting God. A personal relationship with Jesus Christ is the assured path. The Scriptures say, “Seek ye the Lord while He may be found, call upon Him while He is near.” Think about it.