Death is Not to be Feared

“Then, when our dying bodies have been transformed into bodies that will never die, this Scripture will be fulfilled: “Death is swallowed up in victory.” 1 Corinthians 15:54 NLT

In a heartbreaking story titled “Marathon runner with 'perfect' blood test results diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer - his only symptom was easy to dismiss,” published earlier this week, it was reported that a father-of-two who put the 'dull ache' in his lower abdomen down to stress levels was eventually diagnosed with ultra-deadly pancreatic cancer — and has warned others not to dismiss warning signs. Lee Rawlinson, 51, from Leigh-on-Sea, Essex, has been told he has months to live, after doctors spotted the disease that is 'inoperable', and has spread to his liver. The 'brutal' diagnosis came as a total shock — not only because he is a fit and healthy marathon runner, but due to his normal blood and urine tests. Of his imminent and certain departure, Lee said, “This will be my last Christmas. I’m facing the jaws of death. I’m sailing towards it and I can’t do anything about it, yet I just have to face it. I don’t fear death, I fear leaving my children and my wife behind…”

And you know, while most people would say that their biggest fear is death, believers in Jesus Christ should never share that fear. You see, as Paul reminds us, “when our dying bodies have been transformed into bodies that will never die, this Scripture will be fulfilled: “Death is swallowed up in victory.” In other words, when our current bodies perish, they will be replaced by bodies in heaven that will never die. Though we’re mortal now, if we’re in Christ when we pass from this life to the next, we’ll be immortal, living forever with Him in heaven—a place where there will be no more tears, pain or suffering. Which means, for Christians, death is not something to fear.

So, knowing that not even death can separate us from the love of God, live your life on fire for him every day my friend. As this story shows, our days are numbered and we have only so much time to serve Christ and to inspire others to seek Him. So don’t waste even one minute of it! Every day is a gift from God to be used in service to God. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the death and resurrection of your Son, Jesus Christ, that defeated death once and for all. Help us to remember that, as George Whitfield once said, “We are immortal until our work on earth is done.” And to hold on to the promise that death is not the end but the beginning of eternal life with You. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!