Clinging to What's Real

I remember a lady we served in our chaplaincy program. Her name

was Susie. While she was older and had been ill for several years, she had a quiet beauty about her and a lovely smile. She exuded joy and peace.

The doctors at the care center told her that her lung capacity was rapidly decreasing and that she would likely die soon. The amazing thing was that despite this diagnosis, she remained joyful and peaceful.

“I’m ready pastor,” she told me. “I know where I’m going and I look forward to it.” Susie had her affairs in order. She calmly said goodbye to family and friends. Then, just as calmly, she passed-away.

I want to be like Susie when I grow up.

It wasn't that she didn't want to live anymore or was tired of being sick with lung cancer and other problems. The truth is that Susie just loved Jesus and the thought of heaven more than she loved this world. This resulted in her having peace but a power and strength about her as well.

The book of Revelation talks about people like Susie. In chapter 12, verse 11 we read:

"And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death."

The absolute confidence and charisma of people who cannot be moved by fear of loss is overwhelming. What can our Enemy do to or against people like that? Nothing...absolutely nothing. Susie's witness has outlived her--and it moves me to grow in character.

Susie clung to what was real and lasting--her faith in Jesus. I want to do that. I want to help others do that as well!

To that end,

Pastor Joel