This past weekend, we attended a funeral of a dear, godly man, and less than two hours later, we celebrated an 80th birthday party. The first event was not pre-planned, but the second one was.
As I sat at Don’s funeral, I wondered how can we mourn the death of a loved one when it brings such joy to Jesus to welcome one of His loved ones home?
“Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints.” Psalm 116:15
We celebrated the life of one man, and we celebrated the living of another man. The first man, Don, is now celebrating his new, eternal life. The other man, Burt, is anticipating new life he has yet to meet.
Death of every human being ushers in what is known as life after death. We all will experience this revealed surety from God. Believers in Jesus Christ will revel in unimaginable, everlasting joy in the very presence of God, our Maker, our Heavenly Father.
“You have made known to me the path of life; in Your presence is fullness of joy; at Your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” Psalm 16:11
On the other hand, unbelievers will suffer the unimaginable wrath of a righteous and holy God against sin.
“As I live,” says the Lord God, “I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but that the wicked turn from his way (repent) and live.” Ezekiel 33:11
“God is patient toward us not willing that any should perish (to be separated from God forever in everlasting torment), but that all should come to repentance.” 2 Peter 3:9
Why? Why does God not take pleasure in the death of unbelievers, but does consider the death of the godly as precious? Because He knows the consequences of those who reject Jesus Christ, His offer of forgiveness of sins, and eternal life, and therefore, die in their unbelief. God knows what unbelievers are facing. Forever.
Both Don and Burt know the heart of the Lord God. They know it well. That is why we can celebrate one man’s life and celebrate another man’s living.