Reality can make us lost for words

This morning has been a stunning one. I'm lost for words. I'm in a situation where I want so badly to say something to make a family feel better and I have no idea what to say.

In the middle of the night last night, a person associated with the congregation where I preach, died. He was 25 years old. He had a bad heart and was in need of a transplant. A couple of days ago everything shut down, and now the inevitable has become a reality. A beautiful family now has to stare this reality in the face. Their 25 year old blessing from God is now gone.

As I get ready to go over to their house in a little bit, a question keeps racing through my mind; What in the world do you say to a mother and father who is having to let go and accept saying good-bye to their son? I suppose there is not much I can say. I will be there to listen and offer my support to them in whatever way I can. I will spend time with them deep in prayer. I also pray that through my conversation with them and with God's help, I will be able say something worthwhile and encouraging Saturday at the funeral. More importantly, I pray God's blessings on this sweet family who is obviously hurting. Please pray for them.

Something else that comes to mind here however, is the wonderful home we have available to us in Heaven (John 14:1-6). Jesus taught that His kingdom is within the grasp of everyone of us. I pray that I, along with all of us, will have the strength and courage to walk daily with Jesus, with our hearts set on service to Him and His perfect kingdom. Because when we do this, there is a hope given to us that allows us to not be shaken by the cold, hard reality of this life's occurences. The hope of an eternity with God is what helps us through difficult times. Heaven reminds us that this world is not our home. I am convinced that at least in part, trying times happen in this life for the purpose of reminding us that something better awaits us. If everything were perfect here on earth, what would be so special about the next life?

Reality! It can be quite sobering. But may we also keep in perspective the reality of this temporary life. James reminds us that as a vapor, life is only for a little while, and then it is gone (4:13-14). Nothing is guaranteed except for eternity. This is real.