"Done"

Born amidst your mother’s tears,

Of labor and of love,

You were received into her arms,

A gift from God above.

First carried you within her womb,

And then in her embrace,

Nestled safely at her breast,

You started your life’s race.

Childhood playing ‘round the house,

Where you first had your dreams,

Getting ready for your life,

And go farther, so it seems.

Through Jesus Christ salvation came,

Received the second birth,

The miracle of eternal life,

Beyond the realm of earth.

Despite those who resisted you,

And those will always be,

But going on to make your mark,

Upon the world, you see.

Growing older, past your prime,

But still you are not through,

Because of God’s call on your life,

There’s more for you to do.

And finally the slowing down,

And time takes all its toll,

More time spent around the house,

The years of growing old.

And in the end when time gets brief,

Your carried, cannot walk,

Heaven’s closer now than life,

You can hear the Spirit talk.

Whispering, “Come home, my dear,”

To pastures far above,

A few more breaths and heartbeats here,

And then exquisite love.

Finished with the fight you fought,

Ended mission, too,

Thankful for God’s every grace,

That He gave to you.

And then the tears of those who care,

Are shed to say good-bye,

Straight into God’s arms you go,

With joy, but still they cry.

But you are shining in that place,

Your tears are wiped away,

Your life’s journey now complete,

In God’s planned, eternal day.

“Therefore we also have as our ambition, whether at home or absent, to be pleasing to Him.” (2 Corinthians 5:9, NAS)

Our lives are not about this earthly reality as much as it is about eternity. Finding a relationship with Jesus Christ and our purpose in Him prepares us to enter eternity with confidence. We spend a lifetime getting ready, and precious in the Lord’s sight is the death of His saints. Whether here or hereafter, we live to please Him- nothing less and nothing else. God help us to stay focused.

Lord, help us to please You no matter what, in Jesus’ name.

Art by Brent Flory, used by permission. Thanks, Brent, and God bless you.