Something worth living for

The older we get, the more we realize how temporary we really are. When children are young, they're convinced they'll live forever. They're invincible. But as we age, reality confronts us. Sickness confronts us. Death confronts us.

Today we attended the funeral of Adam's grandma. It was a long-expected event, but none-the-less sorrowful for the family, especially Adam's mom. Her pain was more evident than that of any other family member. This is understandable as she was closest to her mom, caring for her 24-7 the last few weeks. Remembering Barbara's life brought the family together, as well as remembrances and appreciation for the life and love we have today.

We came home from the funeral to find out that a beloved friend lost her battle with cancer this afternoon. When her cancer was discovered, it was already stage four. Having gone through stage four cancer with my Aunt only a few years ago, I knew the possibilities. Its so sad. Its seems that sickness and death are everywhere. When I was younger, it mostly seemed like death was elsewhere, not in my close friends or family. The older I get, the closer death comes, sparing none. Its humbling to realize how powerless we really are. We know several other friends battling cancer and other life-threatening illnesses. It seems like life on this earth just gets darker and darker.

Yet the thought that becomes clearer each day is how much I long to go home. Home where Jesus is. Home where we can all be with our loved ones again, where there is no more pain, sickness, sadness, and death.

What keeps me going on this earth is seeing God reflected in His people. We got to hear story after story of Barbara's life. She was an amazing person. Kind. Loving. Thoughtful. Tender. She never had a negative word to say about anyone. Never complained. Always smiled, and was full of wit, right up until the very end.

As I sat there listening to the stories, I realized that all those characteristics described another person perfectly: her daughter, Adam's Mom, Gail. I've often been baffled by the beauty of her spirit and character. My pettiness and selfishness condemns me as I look at the selfless way she lives her life, always thinking of others, never complaining, and never concerned for herself. Talking with her has made me a better person. I am convinced that God is walking with her each day, and that He has placed her in my life so that I can grow and see what God wants to be in my life. I'm sure she doesn't realize how many lives she has touched, but I know she's touched mine. It makes me realize that I want to let God work that way in me. I want others to be able to see God in me. Thats something worth living for, despite being surrounded by death and sadness. The way we live our lives is the example we leave for others to follow. Thats something we all should live for, because when that day comes for Jesus to take us all home, I want to see as many people there as possible. Don't you?