By Fr. Adolf Washington –
Some people fear living. Some fear dying. Only those with an unshakable faith in God will fear neither death nor life.
Evangelist Dwight L. Moody caught a glimpse of the glory awaiting him in his eternal home moments before his death. Awakening from sleep, Moody said, “Earth recedes. Heaven opens before me. If this is death, it is sweet! There is no valley here. God is calling me and I must go!” Moody’s son said, “No, no father. You are dreaming.” Moody replied, “No, I’m dreaming. I have been within the gates…” After a short time Dr. Moody said again “This is my triumph; this is my coronation day! It is glorious!”
For Jesus, Life was a Mission and Death was a home-coming because He always reminded people and Himself in different ways of His mission “I have come to do the will of my Father in heaven”, “I have come that you might have life in abundance” “I and my Father are one”. This is the reason He faced life boldly and with great zeal despite criticisms, insults and accusations. Even in His dying moments, He stuck to His mission, pardoning his executioners, pardoning the repentant thief and promising him paradise saying “today you will be with me in paradise”.
For Jesus, death was a home-coming which is why His last words on the cross were “Father into your hands I commend my spirit” and “It is finished”. In simple language, He was saying ‘Dad, I have done all that you wanted me to do, I am returning home now’.
Do you look at life as a mission entrusted to you by God? A mission to ‘be good’ and ‘do good’ to others; to forgive, to comfort the afflicted and render charity to the needy; when you see your life as a mission, you have the joy of living and will never fear death because you will enjoy the certainty of going to heaven.
Saint Paul summarizes the Christian purpose of living and dying saying “If we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord” (Romans 14:8)
Make your life meaningful. Consider life as a mission and death as a happy return to your Maker.