Hearing the word “terminal” come from a doctor’s mouth is devastating and frightening. It means the end is near and we’ve run out of time. It means there are no second chances. YUCK!
In our humanness, we seem to think we will escape death. Each of us trudge through the days as if we have all the time in the world and then we seem shocked when the game is over.
The ‘game’ is ending for all of us, indeed.
Because I’ve experienced terminal illness firsthand, I’d like to limit my ‘death’ conversation to this area. (Nice topic, Meg!)
I can’t help but think that others have been where I’ve been or will face the enormous challenge of helping a loved one with a terminal illness. I can only hope that my tiny bit of knowledge in this subject will help others, even if it just gives them the assurance that they are not alone.
For me, the not knowing what to do was the worst part. There were so many questions and not enough answers. Everyone had their own opinion and no one could tell us exactly what steps to take. It was a terribly bleak time in my family’s life and none of us made off unscathed.
Obviously, every situation is different. However, the ONE thing I learned during this crisis was that I COULD control my attitude. I’m not talking about Pollyanna thoughts that all is well and being in denial. I’m referring to placing my focus on the ONE who has the world in His hands.
For the 18 months that my dad was sick, I prayed fervently that I would have peace in the situation and that God would guide me through the process. I honestly didn’t know what else to pray for…well, besides complete healing!
Guess what? I have never in my life been more at peace than I was during those months!
In fact, I wouldn’t have survived without God’s help. Not only did God hold my hand during those dark hours, He allowed me to see the work of His hands. What a wonderful gift!
Death is inevitable for all of us. And it comes in a plethora of forms. However, are we dreading our last day on earth or looking forward to it?
As a believer in Jesus Christ, I am in awe of death. Yep, it’s scary. And pain frightens me. But, death is only the beginning.
But, as it is written, “What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man imagined, what God has prepared for those who love him” 1Corinthians 2:9
So, what do we do in the meantime?
I say we need to get busy worshiping, praising, praying, loving, forgiving, teaching, giving and helping.
Unfortunately, I haven’t always been able to say that!
My outlook on death and life completely changed two years ago when my dad died of cancer.
Yes, we got the terminal speech. Yes, we were devastated and shocked. Yes, it was a harrowing experience I wouldn’t wish on anyone.
Yet, God performed miracles.
No, my dad was not cured. But, healing is not always the miracle.
Trust, hope and an insurgence of faith were my miracles while dad was ill. And God continues to bless me with His comfort and peace. (Thank you, God!!!)
He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” Revelation 21:4
The end is coming for all of us. What have you done to prepare to meet God?
Some Wisdom for Today: Proverbs 31:6-7 – Give strong drink to the one who is perishing, and wine to those in bitter distress; let them drink and forget their poverty and remember their misery no more.
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