Last night, I saw on Facebook that someone on Young Life staff had passed away. I didn't know him well, but I did work with him for a month about five years ago and remember him being a very genuine, vibrant, and witty man. He has two little boys and a beautiful wife who are still living, and my heart breaks for them. I cant imagine life without Zach anytime soon, especially if we had a family. I don't know them, but I am praying them.
What my heart doesn't break for, though, is the fact that this man is so undoubtedly in heaven. I was reading through what people had written on his facebook wall, lots of stories, memories, but mostly were countless young men and women, in high school or in college, or in their twenties leaving a note saying that this man had lead them to Christ. Without him standing up strong for what he believed in, and doing what God asks of all of us, to spread the gospel to the ends of the earth, it appears that hundreds of people would not know their Savior.
However, the post that stood out the most to me simply said, "Well done, good and faithful servant."
That's all; no story, no thank you.
This made me think, if I got cancer, was in a car accident, slipped on ice and fell into a coma, whatever... what would people say about me? When I get to the gates of heaven, what will God say about me?
Yes I work at a Christian camp, yes I led Young Life & mentored teenagers for two years, yes I invite my family to church often; but what about my thoughts? What about my actions?
The words in that quote are beyond meaningful. I know the only way to be preaching the Gospel without words, is to have my heart fully hidden in Christ (so filled with His love & compassion there is no room for my own selfishness). When I read the posts on this man's facebook wall, I was overwhelmed with the feeling that God must be pleased with him.
I can only pray that God is pleased with me too. I'm pretty dang good at talking the talk, putting on a happy face. But when we start talking real, I don't always know if my intentions are in the right place & I'll be the first to admit that my thoughts are not always pleasing in God's eyes.
A verse my favorite Marlene (my mentor) always reminds me is to "hold every thought captive to God". It took me awhile to grasp the meaning of this verse, but I think it's time to start remembering this every day.
So by the death of a man who I barely knew, the Lord is speaking to me. I know He can speak to you too, if you'll listen.
These lessons aren't always easy, but I know its time for me to start thinking about my day to day life. Am I pleasing God? If today was my last day, do I think the Lord would say to me, "Katie, well done my faithful servant" ... maybe He would. Maybe I am too hard on myself. But I know have a lot of room to improve and grow.
My prayer will be that my life will be one that is worth someone saying Well done, good and faithful servant.
3 comments:
I pray that my life can have an impact on at least someone. That I can be known for being a servant and child of God. I am so sorry for the loss of your friend. I was very involved in YoungLife growing up and my brother is now involved in WyldLife for middle schoolers. He recently "figured it all out" and I am so grateful for the leaders who are walking with him on his journey!
this is so inspiring. i am so sorry for your loss. i just hope that when my time comes i know that i have done well and those around me know i have done well also!
xo TJ
I am pretty involved in the young life community and I have been praying for this sweet family all week. It is so heartbreaking to hear..but we have the assurance that God is holding that sweet wife and her babies up and holding them close to Him. :)
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