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On
February 23rd, my 67-year-old father died suddenly of an aortic aneurysm. We did
not even know that he had an aneurysm developing. In the following days it fell
to my brother and sisters and myself to look through Dad's possessions that my
mother had no use for. It was a difficult experience, because my father had always
been a very private person, not allowing others into his things.
As we searched through the computer programs, tools, golf shirts and supplies,
magazines, and various other things, we were surprised at some of what he had.
He was the kind of person that if he wanted something he would generally just
go and buy it for himself. At the same time if something was worn out or junky
he would it throw away. He had trouble resisting computer program sales pitches,
and the lure of what seemed to be a really good deal.
But no matter how private a person he is, when he dies, possessions are no longer
under his control. This made me start thinking about what I have and what I own.
The Bible warns us of getting too attached to this world's things. Jesus said,
"For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world, and forfeit his
soul?" (Mark
8:36)
My father made a decision when he was only 12 years old that affected his soul.
He chose at that time to make Jesus Christ part of his life. Each of us should
consider that decision. We have to plan ahead, much like someone might make a
will to take care of their affairs when they die. In a sense, we make a will when
we tell God that we want Jesus Christ to be a part of our lives. We make the most
important plans that can be made, those that affect our eternal destination.
Have you made plans for the future, your eternal future? If
not, why not do something about it right now? The Bible says "Now is the time
for salvation!"
I urge you to plan
for your future right now.
All Scripture references are from the New American
Standard Version unless otherwise noted.
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Possessions and Passing
