Preparing for death

Death comes. Its a fact.

We prepare for so much of life. Births. Graduations. Weddings. Tomorrows. How do we prepare for death? The answer is quite simple, really.

The best preparation for death is a life well-lived.

When we fully embrace life each and everyday, even if we aren’t ready for death (if it comes too soon or is too surprising), we will be prepared for it. Contrary to popular belief, a life well lived is not a life without conflict or pain. Rather, it is a life that embraces each moment, the joys and the sorrows, the hopes and the defeats, in a way that honors life throughout time and space.

Life is so much bigger than each of us. Life was here before us and will be here after us. Yet life is in each of us right now. In each moment ask, how is it that I honor life – past, present, and future – now? In honoring life, you will be living well. And, whether you believe it or not, you will be honoring the Creator, Redeemer and Sustainer of Life.

For me, honoring life means honoring the God of the Bible, described as Father, Son and Holy Spirit. God has breathed in each of us the breath of life (Genesis 1:26-31). God deeply desires that we experience the fullness of life (John 10:10; John 3:5-6). God’s grace (unmerited favor) toward his creation causes him to keep giving us life, even when we squander it (John 3:16-21). Because of God’s generosity and love, we live. Living well (as God designed) is the best preparation for death.

Death comes. It is a fact. Live well. It is a gift.