Three weeks ago I stopped by to see my Mom and Dad. They live in separate residences; Mom in their home and Dad in a home because of a bit of dementia. When I got in to see my Dad he was having trouble walking and forming words. This was the beginning of the end.
Just over a week ago was the service to honor his life. Dad had done many things in his 88 years. He had touched many lives and was known as a kind and gentle person. He taught school and many of his students spoke of his care for them … not only in the classroom dealing with the academics, but also with life in general. He questioned some of their choices to make them think and helped them get summer jobs to get ahead. Dad also was active in Boy Scouts and other volunteer work.
Dad was a hard worker. Sure, he was a schoolteacher, but he also kept an orchard. I’m not sure if the orchard was for additional income for a family of five children; or a way to keep all of us occupied. Neither one of my parents believed in being idle.
Even though he was busy, he still took the time to take us fishing, canoeing, hiking, and we often went for drives to see something interesting. Every event had a purpose I am sure. Both Mom and Dad took a very active interest in our lives and were present for a lot of our concerts, competitions, or special days.
Dad was a very good person as the world dictates the standard. None of these things, though, have bearing on where he will spend eternity. Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth and the life; no one comes to the father except through me.” (John 14:6).
In Romans 3:23 it tells us that, “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God”. We all fall short of God’s standard. No matter how good we are, we still are not good enough.
But wait; there is hope. John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world, that He gave His one and only son, whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life. Get that? Whoever believes in Jesus will have eternal life: life in heaven with God and all who believe in Jesus. This is my absolute certainty … I will see my Dad again because he believed in Jesus and so do I. What do you believe, and where will you spend eternity?
