There is a season

There is a season..
I am cleared for take-off. Into the unknown, of course. You can only predict and plan your life so much and then, we’re outta here. For those of us who know Christ, it’s a hopeful end that isn’t an end at all.
We heard a man who ministers in music all over the world on Sunday. He described himself as an “adrenaline junkie”. He told this story. He was on a plane whose landing gear malfunctioned during take-off. They had to prepare for an emergency landing. This guy was so excited that he had to try to keep from smiling as the stewardess explained the crash position. And then, yes, he was in the row that had the emergency door! Was he willing to be Assistant #1? Absolutely! It would be his job to open the emergency door and help people exit. This guy was thrilled. The plane flew around to burn up most of its fuel and headed down for the landing. Even while assuming the prescribed crash position, our guy couldn’t help but peek out the window. There were NO other planes and there were fire trucks waiting. Our guy was really excited now. As they landed, the pilot touched down on the two good landing wheels, and eased onto the bad one ever so slowly. The wheel held and they had a normal exit. So our guy was now disappointed that he didn’t get to open the door. Most people would be terrified. Not our guy. He also talked about how the flight attendants went person by person to make sure everyone knew the crash position. He emphasized how our position with Christ needs to be one of prayer, of constant communication. It was a great point.
Ryan also made an interesting point that is well worth sharing. Yes, this guy may be an adrenaline junkie, but even more than that, he wasn’t afraid of death. His relationship with Christ was so close that this emergency situation did not evoke any fear in him at all. That’s really how it needs to be.
One of our friends, Dave LeYanna, died this weekend. As his obituary states, “he departed and went to be with his Lord.” He was one of those people who knew. He knew Jesus and that was enough. He was an extraordinary man who looked forward to eternity, knowing life here is temporary.
So are you prepared for take-off? Do you have fears about death lingering in the corners of your heart and mind? Go to God with them. Go to God every day. Get ready.
“There is a time to be born and a time to die.”