Dear Ones,

In our Christian experience we have all had death touch us in some manner. It hurts, it stings (I Corinthians 15:55) and we look for comfort for ourselves and also to be able to comfort others in their loss and bereavement.

I have read that it is sometimes better to be silent and just be there to hug and comfort. I think this is good, but I also think a few words from Scripture can put things back into Christian perspective. No preaching sermon; just a few words.

I have used three few words found in II Corinthians 5:4 NIV

what is mortal may be swallowed up by life.

When we first read this verse it sounds like something out-of-place. The words “swallowed up by life” seem to be out of context because our human experience interprets anything that is “swallowed up” as gone (death). This is as the world sees death: as the end to everything.

“Swallowed up” is such an ominous phrase, but add the positive phrase, “by life,” and now we have an awesome promise. Life in all it completeness; Christ as the victor over death; the bearer of life and ultimately our hope of “so great a salvation” (Hebrews 2:3)

You need to remind the bereaved that their loved one is really alive and is far ahead and waiting for them to arrive. In a way we are the ones in the past. Those who have gone before us are with Jesus and patiently waiting for us to catch up and together enjoy “such a great salvation.”

Love you and be a blessing,

Brother Walt

Walt Irwin
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A Christian View of Mortality
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