Christian Living

Life’s summary in one verse

by jay supetran
05/11/18
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He died at a good old age, having enjoyed long life, wealth and honour. – 1 Chronicles 29:28

Nabi Tajima, the oldest person of our time and the last known to be born in the 19^th century died in April 21, 2018. She was 117, three years short of the God-designated lifespan. In Genesis 6:3, it is stated, “Then the Lord said, My Spirit will not contend with humans forever, for they are mortal, their days will be a hundred and twenty years. “

Less than a month later, on May 10, 2018, David Goodall, an Australian scientist, travelled to Switzerland to have an assisted suicide. He lost the will to live and despite having no illness, he decided to end his life, declaring that, “I no longer want to continue life, and I’m happy to have a chance tomorrow to end it.”  He was 104 years old.

Life is a transitory experience. Marred by sin, people hated life on earth. Only those who were found by Christ experience rebirth and enjoy life in the Kingdom of God. A modern adage goes something like this – the years maybe finite, but the opportunities to enjoy life is infinite.  Indeed, there are countless opportunities, and our verse describe three key areas to enjoy.

Long life may be experienced by Nabi and David, but for many people this is not the case. Disease, catastrophe and violence claim people’s lives even at an early stage. There are also self-inflicted damage to the body by excessive abuse. Despite advances in medicine, man still cannot find the fountain of youth to extend life. The good news is that we are given a choice - we can live in the chaotic world or seek the protection of God and have everlasting life.

Different perspectives of what is wealth led people to destruction. There are those who equate wealth and prosperity with physical things. This results to injustice as some people pushed by greed amass physical wealth at the expense of other people. Some people enjoy looking at their heap of wealth even if their neighbours are starving.

The real wealth, the things in life that are abundant and free, are forgotten. The enjoyment we have with our families and friends are priceless. So is nature. I was blessed with the opportunity to travel to wonderful places. I met amazing people and made great memories with them. Quality time with the people we love and who in turn love us are wealth that cannot be taken away from us.

We reap what we sow. With our lives as living testimonies, we will reap other people’s respect or scorn. If we sow good seed, honour will be heaped on us.

And so we do not have to worry as we grow old. The good news is that while we are in the Kingdom, happiness will always mark our days. Apostle Paul said, “Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day (2 Cor 4:16).