SCRIPTURAL REFERENCES
(Genesis 5:27) “And all the days of Methuselah were nine hundred sixty and nine years: and he died.”
(Hebrews 9:27) “And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:”
PROLOGUE
This message arose in my heart after observing a world that seems to be racing forward without a clear destination. Many individuals live as though they are guaranteed to exist for 300 years or more, seemingly neglecting the finite nature of our time on Earth. This realization prompts me to reflect on Genesis 5:27, which recounts the lifespan of Methuselah, a man who lived to be nine hundred and sixty-nine years old. Yet, crucially, the scripture also states that he died.
The phrase "He died" powerfully reminds us of the inevitability of death, a universal truth that applies to every living being. This stark reality is a fundamental aspect of the human experience, affecting people from all walks of life, irrespective of their background, beliefs, social economic status, or personal achievements. We often become wrapped up in our daily routines, ambitions, and distractions, but it is essential to remember that our time is limited.
Every person born into this world is inevitably faced with the reality of death. The scriptures affirm this truth in Hebrews 9:27, which states that death is an appointment we must all keep—an inexorable event that cannot be rescheduled or avoided.
Beloved, unlike changing plans for a doctor's visit or postponing an important meeting, the moment of our passing is beyond our control. The Holy Bible further emphasizes our fragility in Luke 12:7, which reminds us that the very hairs on our heads are numbered. This highlights the divine attention given to our lives, underscoring how precious and transient our existence truly is.
The apostle James offers a touching reflection in James 4:14, describing our lives as vapor that can be gone instantly. This should encourage us to value our relationships, nurture connections with family and friends, and actively pursue our passions and dreams. This awareness also prompts us to consider the kind of legacy we want to leave behind, reminding us to strive to make a positive impact on the world around us.
"THE HINDENBURG TRAGEDY.
When I reflect on death and the fleeting nature of time, I am sadly reminded of the Hindenburg disaster. On that fateful day, thirty-six passengers had crossed the Atlantic in a helium-filled airship and were joyfully waving to their friends and family at the dock in New Jersey. In a matter of moments, those thirty-six individuals transitioned from a moment of celebration to facing an eternity they might not have been ready to enter.
The Hindenburg began its ill-fated final flight on May 3, 1937, carrying 36 passengers alongside 61 officers, crew members, and trainees. Although the luxurious airship had completed its transatlantic journey, turbulent headwinds delayed its much-anticipated arrival in New Jersey.
Captain Max Pruss, the experienced commander of the Hindenburg, decided to wait out the storm, trusting that the weather conditions would eventually improve. After some time, he was informed that it was now safe to proceed with the landing. As they approached the landing field from the southwest, Captain Pruss skillfully initiated a wide, graceful turn to align the massive airship with the landing strip.
Moments later, witnesses on the ground and those aboard the Hindenburg began to observe alarming signs of trouble. Without any forewarning, a catastrophic fire erupted, igniting the hydrogen-filled envelope of the airship. The inferno spread rapidly, leading to a devastating loss of thirty-six lives.
Think about it: Thirty-six people in that airship may have had family or friends waving at them from the dock below. They may have had grand plans for a bright future. Maybe some of the ones on the airship may have had plans to finish school or even invest in real estate, but their life ended tragically.
Beloved, death is an inevitable appointment that we all must keep. Because of this uncertainty, the most important action we can take during our time on earth is to live in the present and be ready to meet Jesus.
In conclusion, it is essential for us to prioritize the aspects of life that truly matter and to avoid taking them for granted. By fully embracing the present moment and focusing on what holds real significance, we can develop a deeper appreciation for each day and the relationships we cultivate with others. Our most important goal should be to leave a meaningful and lasting impact on those around us, inspiring them to cherish their own lives and the relationships they hold dear.
"HOW TODAY CAN BECOME TOMORROW."
In the small community where I grew up in eastern Tennessee, the ministers often shared a touching message: “This message has been short and sweet, but now it is time for us to measure up to what God has given us.” This saying never failed to resonate, reminding me of the importance of living a life of purpose and integrity.
Throughout this message, we have explored the fragile nature of life, how it can change instantly, and how it can be here today and gone tomorrow. This reality underscores the sobering truth that “Death does not discriminate based on how old a person may be.” It strikes across age and circumstance, often at the most unexpected moments.
I frequently find myself reflecting on the inexplicable nature of survival. For instance, how can someone survive a harrowing fall from an airplane, while we hear tragic news about someone losing their life from a seemingly minor accident, like falling off a porch or a ladder? These contrasting outcomes leave me pondering the mysteries of fate and the unpredictable ways life and death intertwine.
It is appointed for all men to die, and after death, they will inevitably face judgment for their lives and actions. Reflecting on this profound truth, I often consider instances where what could have been a magnificent mansion instead becomes an eyesore. This deterioration usually stems from the owners' lack of foresight and planning.
The individual who commissioned the construction is taken by illness or an unexpected accident, leaving behind a property that was once full of potential but is now neglected and deteriorating. Such a situation serves as a sad reminder of the importance of thoughtful preparation, not just for our earthly possessions but for our legacies and the impact we leave behind.
This situation takes me back to the sudden and heartbreaking loss of one of my favorite uncles. He was only in his early thirties, full of life, laughter, and good health, an absolute joy to be around. However, everything instantly changed when he was stung in the finger by a wasp.
At first, it seemed like a typical sting; he had experienced them without any issues. However, this time was different. His finger swelled up painfully, and within minutes, he was struggling to breathe. The swift arrival of the paramedics, though commendable, came far too late to save him.
A seemingly ordinary wasp sting triggered a catastrophic allergic reaction, and within moments, he was gone. The impact of his loss was staggering, leaving a gaping void in our family that can never truly be filled. It’s haunting to reflect on the countless generations that preceded this moment, the lineage that ultimately led to this bee, fulfilling its purpose and unknowingly taking my uncle from us.
Beloved, each life we live and every moment we share highlight the delicate nature of our existence and the unpredictable twists of fate that can alter our paths. These experiences remind us that life is fleeting and that we must confront the reality of death, whether it be our own, the loss of a cherished loved one, or the passing of a close friend.
In conclusion, understanding that we are spiritual beings having a human experience should urge us to cherish our relationships and the time we have together while acknowledging the inevitability of change and loss in our lives. This awareness encourages us to live more fully in the present, appreciating the connections we build and the memories we create, as they shape our journey through life.
MY CONCLUSION
This message should serve as a wake-up call to the importance and sacredness of life. Some interpret a biblical sentiment as stating that we should mourn at birth and celebrate at death, drawing from the wisdom in Ecclesiastes' the third chapter.
In this passage, the writer eloquently highlights that there is a time for every purpose under heaven, a time to be born and die. This perspective encourages us to appreciate the fullness of life’s experiences, recognizing that joy and sorrow coexist and are vital parts of our journey.
We never know when Heaven will call our name, so it is essential for us to start preparing for eternity in this life. Within our very DNA, a legacy passed down through generations exists; at the right moment, this genetic inheritance may be activated, gently guiding us from this world to the next.
The fear of the unknown is a significant component of death contibuting to anxiety. This fear stems from the unpredictability surrounding death, often leaving us wrestling with profound questions: When will it happen? How will it occur?
What will be left behind for our loved ones? Such uncertainties can be overwhelming. However, it is also important to recognize that, for those suffering from prolonged and painful illnesses, the prospect of death can bring a sense of relief and release from suffering.
The Holy Bible offers a comforting perspective on death. In Psalms 116:15, it states, “Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints.” This verse emphasizes that for Christians, death is not merely an end, but rather a transition, a passage into a realm of eternal joy and peace.
In conclusion, the apostle Paul reassures us in 2 Corinthians 5:8 that to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. This statement acts as a source of hope and comfort, reminding us that our physical death is not the end of our existence but rather a step toward a glorious eternal life.
International Evangelist
Jerry W. Hulse, Ph.D.
Miracle Life Church International
