Book Reviews

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THE RAINBOW BRIDGE


The following is a passage from Potpourri # 3 (E-BookTime), the third in a series exploring three topics in each text. This serves as a means of fine-tuning a Christian life and world view. Whereas a recent study suggests that only about twenty percent of professing Christians evidence a viable purview.
The Rainbow Bridge is a graphic way of expressing the transit from earthly life to heaven.
By way of illustration, and as recalled by her husband, his beloved wife had fallen into a deep coma. Her demise seemed imminent. Members of the extended family gathered to bid her farewell, and comfort one another. Then suddenly she regained consciousness. Looking around, she senses what was transpiring, and asked that those present assemble by her bedside. “Do not be concerned for me,” she assured them; “I am looking forward with great anticipation to join the saints in glory. However, I am concerned for some of you, who need to put your house in order.”
“I have never heard a more persuasive sermon,” her husband observed. Moments later, his wife again lost consciousness. This time there was no reprieve. She would be remembered for may reasons, not least of which was her parting exhortation.
Why is it that we attach such great importance to one’s final comments? Perhaps for a number of reasons. Initially, simply as a means of closure. Something that is needed with the passing of a loved one, and not uncommonly difficult to achieve. This was clearly evident in the instance cited above.
What else? It marks the conclusion to a life shared with others. Along the line of a benediction. As such, it is deeply cherished and recalled from time to time. Thus retained as a corporate legacy.
Anything else? Since it often embraces the accumulated wisdom of a lifetime. In this regard, “Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction and do not forsake your mother’s teaching. They will be a garland to grace your head and a chain to adorn your neck” (Prov. 1:8-9). Rather than being enticed by sinners to follow in their ways.
Something more? At this crucial moment time blends with eternity. For better or worse, but hopefully for the better—as a witness to God’s faithfulness. Along with relatively few regrets, and as an appealing precedent for others.
Scripture offers a number of provocative examples, several of which are cited in the following text—along with one example from early church history. As might be supposed, that concerning Jesus stands out from the remainder.
As for our deference to Scripture, “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work” (2 Tim. 3:16). Several observations would seem in order. (1) All Scripture is divinely inspired, both in its entirety and particulars. As an inexhaustible source of information and initiative.
(2) As a result, to serve a number of related purposes. Initially, for instruction. As a text for living in God’s world, by his abounding grace. Rather than being led astray by some unsuitable alternative, of which there are many. Accordingly, “Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Rom. 12:2).
(3) In greater detail, for rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness. Accordingly, to take issue with what is wrong. No less in providing a constructive alternative. Even when demeaned or abused by those in opposition.
(4) As applicable to the man of God. Which, given the context, might have a pastoral application. Otherwise, it readily applies to any devout individual. Then in terms of our varied callings and circumstances.
(5) Finally, so as to be primed for every good work. Recalling that we are to learn, not simply to know, but to do. “You are the light of the world,” Jesus commended his disciples. “Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven” (Matt. 5:14, 16).
I have thus cited two reasons for pursuing this project. First, one’s final words receive special recognition. So that they are deserving of our appreciative reflection. Second, in that the examples with one exception are derived from Scripture. Consequently, they are of special significance in context of divine revelation, and if for no other reason they are eminently instructive.
All of which brings to mind the observation, “Some hear the sermon, while others hear God speaking to them in the sermon.” The latter involves a personal application, as is my hope for those who delve into this text.

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