Dear Trinity (9/13/24)
preparing well for death
Dear Trinity Family, Jesus’ grace.
In the 18th Century, up to a third of sermons or homilies that were preached had as a common theme: preparing well for death. Statistics reveal that this is a very UNcommon theme in modern preaching. We are comfortable talking about matters that previous generations considered private, and we are uncomfortable talking about matters that previous generations considered publicly important. I recently heard a talk by Dr. Lydia Dugdale who wrote a bestselling book, The Lost Art of Dying. Dugdale offers sobering insight, “The work of preparing for death is actually the work of living.” I’ll give some examples on Sunday as we consider Jesus’ words, “If anyone comes after me, they must deny themselves, take up their cross and follow me.” Mark 8.34.
Jesus’ words fully prepare us for death, while simultaneously preparing us for the actual work of living–abundant living.
Jesus’ peace, Nathan
PS: Last night (Wednesday), while our community was singing evening prayer, I was taken in particularly by the intercession, “For all the beloved who rest in your mercy, God of mercy, hold us in love.” It must have been close in time to when beloved Sue Lubinski, surrounded by those who love and were loved by her, was released from her earthly struggle, and entered fully into the eternal embrace of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Soon after, we entrusted Sue unto the Lord. We will gather for a memorial service and reception on Saturday, October 12th (more details to come). Please keep her family and friends in your prayers.