Monthly Musing

If I Knew I Were Going to Die Tomorrow, What Would I tell My Children Today?

                   by Bryan Gibson

Forgive me for my sins. Maybe you know things I've done against you (Matthew 5:23-24), and if that's the case, I need to be forgiven by you—and by God. I’ve tried hard, but I know my example has been imperfect. I’ve been too harsh at times, other times not firm enough. Please forgive me and make it your aim to improve on the things I did as a parent.

I love each one of you. Your mother and I rejoiced the day you were born (John 16:21), but that was nothing compared to the feelings we had when you were born again (John 3:3-5). I’m looking forward to an eternal reward (2 Timothy 4:6-8), but you children have been my reward here on this earth (Psalms 127:3-5). I’ve tried to demonstrate my love in a variety of ways, but I do hope you remember most the love I’ve shown for your soul.

Yes, you have spouses and children to care for, but take really good care of your mother, too. She has always been willing to “spend and be spent for your souls” (2 Corinthians 12:15). No doubt she made up for my deficiencies as a parent—when I didn’t have time, she did; when I was too soft, she was firm; when I was too harsh, she provided the softer touch. So “repay” your mom (1 Timothy 5:4), a debt you already know you'll never completely erase.

Make sure our precious grandchildren are prepared for the life beyond this one. You already know what’s most important to God (Jeremiah 9:23-24; Galatians 6:14; Matthew 16:26)—make sure they know it too, through what you say AND do.

Serve the Lord faithfully, which among other things means daily (Luke 9:23). Jesus died for you so that you would live wholeheartedly for Him (2 Corinthians 5:14-15). I pray you have good health, that you are able to provide for your families, but above all, I pray that your souls prosper (3 John 1:2). Whatever you accomplish in this life, whatever happiness you find—it won’t mean a thing if you lose your soul (Matthew 16:26).

Study God's word diligently (2 Timothy 2:15; 3:16-17; 1 Peter 2:1-3). The times I’ve made a mess of things was when I either wasn’t studying like I should, or when I ignored what I had studied. Bottom line, I shudder to think how dark my life would be without the light of God’s word, the (many more) foolish decisions I would have made without its guidance, how unprepared I would be for "the time of my departure" (2 Timothy 4:6).

“Heaven holds all to me,” and I sure hope it’s the same for you. It’s where I plan on going, and it’s been my hope for each of you since the day you were born. This time of sorrow—I wish I could say it’s your last, but it’s not. And that’s okay, because these times of sorrow will make you long for a better place—a place Jesus has prepared for you (John 14:3); a place where you never die, where there is no more pain or sorrow (Revelation 21:4); a place that needs no light, because it is completely lit up by the glory of God (Revelation 21:23; 22:5). Think of the best day you’ve ever had, multiply that joy by 10 million (is that enough?), and then imagine every day throughout eternity being just like that.

One more thing—please sing, “When I Survey the Wondrous Cross,” at my funeral. It’s my favorite song, and if you read those words again, you'll know exactly why. It doesn't have to be your favorite song, but you sure better live by its words.



    


 ​