Am I ready? A meditation for my friends who already follow Christ

We are having a “come to Jesus moment.” While this phrase is often used in jest when someone is in trouble and about to experience reality, all Christ-followers are having a come to Jesus moment now.

In a matter of days, our distractions and idols were exposed or taken away. Daily routines, habits, plans, comforts and hobbies came to an abrupt stop.

What we’re learning

This new reality has exposed many aspects of our culture. One of the greatest realizations staring us in the face now is our view of life after death. Denial of reality is a common way of reacting to the certainty of death for both believer and non-believer. But we must be prepared should those we love and serve need us.

While death is possible for any of us at any moment, that reality is highlighted at this time. We believe our faith in Christ is our hope and foundation, and now more than ever is the time to rest in that hope. This is not the time to be a slave to fear, but to radiate Christ alone.

Now, what to do? Are we ready? Am I ready?

Dying is a good thing

Those who know me personally know I talk about dying frequently. I look forward to eternal life. I have had plans in place for my life celebration (funeral) for years. (YEC, CW and Ques shirts will be welcome!) I have shared where I want my ashes spread around the world. My for-real favorite verse for years has been: For to me, living means living for Christ, and dying is even better!  (Phil. 1:21)

Don’t get me wrong, I love life and am grateful to be alive! I have been blessed to walk with Jesus for 45 years and have known of His love my entire life. I have had the joy of serving in ministry for 40 years. But Scripture tells us the best is yet to come!

Do I feel a sense of uncertainty? Of course. But I try daily to live out 2 Chronicles 20:12b, We do not know what to do but our eyes are on you. (By the way, this is a great time to read the story of Jehoshaphat in chapter 20.) I can experience peace by keeping my eyes on Jesus. My prayer is that I am able to join Him where He is at work and have others look in His direction.

If you are a Christ-follower, are you ready for death?

Be prepared

Are you prepared spiritually? Is your heart at peace with God? (Col. 3:12ff)  Ask God daily for the peace He promises as we navigate these days.

Are you prepared practically? Does someone know your passwords and where important papers can be found? Have you shared your medical wishes regarding the end of your earthly life? Do you prefer burial or cremation? Who will lead your celebration of life? A great resource to walk you through planning important decisions is fivewishes.org.

Don’t give in to fear! Enjoy life and be prepared for death.

Allyson Clark serves as Next Generation Co-Director of Youth Ministries at the Baptist Convention of New England.