Get your Affairs in Order

"When Isaac was old and his eyes were so weak that he could no longer see, he called for Esau his older son and said to him, “My son.” “Here I am,” he answered. Isaac said, “I am now an old man and don’t know the day of my death." Genesis 27:1,2 NIV

In a troubling story posted by USA Today over the weekend, the following was reported: In the aftermath of a Thursday shooting that left five people dead in Raleigh, North Carolina, details emerged about the victims as loved ones and a community mourned. Among those who were killed were a police officer, an avid marathon runner and a neighborhood social butterfly. That avid runner was Susan Karnatz, 49, who was described as a loving wife and amazing mother to her three sons aged 10, 13 and 14. Her husband, Tom Karnatz said "We’re absolutely heartbroken and miss her dearly." Left in her driveway, the writer further reported were two parked cars with 26.2 stickers, signifying the number of miles in a marathon. A minivan had the license plate "RUNNR." After reading about the other victims who were all so different, my heart ached for their families and I was struck with the realization that, as different as they all were, they all had this in common... none of them expected to die so suddenly. 

And you know, when it comes to dying unexpectedly, no one knows when they will die. In fact, although Isaac "was old," he acknowledged that even he didn't know "the day" of his death. Believing that it was imminent though since he was well up in years, Isaac called for his son so he could settle his affairs before passing. Sadly though, death can come without notice to any one of any age. Which means that we would all do well to get our affairs in order now--specifically by making sure that we know where we're going when this life ends and making sure that our family knows as well. After all, there's nothing that can bring those left behind more peace than knowing that their loved one who has moved on (no matter the cause or the age) is spending eternity in heaven. 

So if you haven't made the decision to follow Jesus Christ, don't put it off for another moment my friend. This world is getting increasingly more dangerous and you and I aren't guaranteed tomorrow or even the next minute for that matter. Which means having our affairs in order is of utmost importance both to us and to those who are left to mourn our passing. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that no one lives forever and that no one knows when they will die. Help us to truly understand how fleeting and unpredictable life is Lord so that all those who have not accepted You as their Savior would do so now before it's too late. Remind us that the decision we make now will determine where we spend eternity. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!