A line from a theme song of a classic Hong Kong TV series in the 1970s, “Do you know that things in the world are constantly changing…”. It captures the unpredictability of life. The famous line from the film “Forrest Gump” in the 1990s —”Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what flavour you’re going to get…”—also reminds us that life is often beyond our control. From ancient time to the present, whether it’s the twists and turns of life or the end of our lives, we can never control them and often find ourselves in situations beyond our imagination.
In October last year, I came to know that my friend had contracted a serious illness. At the time, I was still holding a slim hope that there might be a chance of recovery. However, after nearly six months of treatment, he died and now rests in Him. The passing of my friend, not only shook me deeply, it once again, made me face the reality of death. In recent months, I have learned that several of my friends are suffering from cancers. One after another bad news, making me realise how fragile and unpredictable life is.
Perhaps, our lives are woven together by countless “encounters” and “partings”. We may anticipate some of these partings, for example, graduation, removal, a change of work place or job. Though we may be reluctant to part, there is always a blessing for each other in our hearts. However, some departures come without warning, such as sudden illnesses and accidents, which may even lead to irreversible death. These unexpected separations are often unbearable, as we have no time to say goodbye or express our feelings.
Like everyone else, we, followers of Christ, suffer the same unforgettable pains and shed unstoppable tears. Loving someone inherently means enduring the pain when we lose them. Faith does not exempt us from grief, but it does give us a unique perspective, allowing us to understand the finiteness of life and the meaning of death from a different perspective.
Look upon eternity
Our life in this world is just like dust on earth. “They are like a breath; their days are like a fleeting shadow. (Psalm 144:4) “Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.” (James 4:14) This scripture tells us that we must not lose hope, rather they are to make us realize that for us life is short, so we should cherish time and learn to pursue things of true value, in the limited years we have. The greatest wisdom in life is to focus on things with eternal significance, rather than just living in the present. As Jesus taught his disciples, “Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” (Matthew 6:33)
Cherish what’s in front of us
Every farewell reminds us to cherish the people and things around us. Perhaps, a simple greeting or a moment of companionship today, will become a fleeting moment tomorrow. Rather than being filled with regret when we lose someone, it is better to be bold and express our love now, be there for them and cherish every moment with family and friends. The Preacher said, “This is what I have observed to be good: that it is appropriate for a person to eat, to drink and to find satisfaction in their toilsome labour under the sun during the few days of life God has given them – for this is their lot.” (Ecc 5:18)
Stand fast to our hope
As a Christian, when we face death, we must not stop at what we have had and lost, we must sustain ourselves with steadfast hope. Because of Christ’s resurrection, we have assurance that death is not the final destination; it is merely a threshold, a passing to heaven. In 1 Thessalonians, Paul describes death as sleep and points out that on a day to come, those who believe will be resurrected and be with the Lord forever. This hope prevents us from being completely consumed by sorrow. Although tears may still flow, we know in our hearts that our separation is not permanent and that we will meet again in the eternal kingdom.
Conclusion
Although life is uncertain, our faith helps us to find reliability and trust. Therefore, we no longer fear death, rather we learn to face it with hope and courage. Death is not the end, but the beginning of the next journey. While we still have breath of life, we should cherish it and be grateful. As we face the future, we must learn to surrender ourselves completely, placing ourselves in the hands of the Lord. “Remember me for this also, my God, and show mercy to me according to your great love.” (Nehemiah 13:22)
Pastor Winson Chan