Maybe the Apostle Paul “got that,” as he wrote under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, saying, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Certainly, he lived out these words as seen through his remarkable feats. The only difference between Paul and us is that he set out to apply personally everything he heard God saying, living up to his human potential.

In a widely read book, physician Maxwell Maltz estimated that 95 percent of all people in our society feel inferior. Environmental and cultural conditioning have played major roles in the formation of attitudes and feelings which produce low self-esteem. Some, of course, have more difficulty than others, but almost everyone to some degree must cope with this unwholesome condition.

“Why?” might be an appropriate question with this issue, for knowing a cause could allow significant changes, or advantages for future generations. Jess Lair, doctor of psychology and author of I ain’t much, baby—but I’m all I’ve got, brings out an interesting theory regarding the Zulus in South Africa, how their “cups” were filled with love, allowing self-assurance and high personal esteem.

Lair perceives that if you are, “ … born a Zulu, you were nursed at your mother’s breast and carried on your mother’s back with your bare skin against her warm, bare skin for two solid years. You were given more physical contact and more physical love and affection than probably any but a handful of children in American culture get … When his two years were up and a new baby came along, it was time for him to be put down on the ground. Often his cup was still not filled with physical love. But he had lots of kids in his village to love him. Because their cups had been filled, they didn’t hate little kids and weren’t mean to them and angry at them. When this little Zulu child cried because he needed to be carried and held, one of the older children picked him up and held him and carried him around . . . so there was a continuation of physical love and affection from both boys and girls as well as from the mother.”

Obviously, the Zulus did not have an ideal society, but they had a beautiful gift in that the whole tribe acted as “mamoos” and “dadoos” to one another. Each child grew up thinking he/she was beautiful and that belonging to his/her tribe was the greatest of honors. They treasured each other.” 

These people had optimum self-esteem—that is until the plight of their nation became such that they were compelled to move into the cities for survival. There, juvenile delinquency and interpersonal strife developed among their members in just a few decades.

The nurturing seen in the Zulu story is no doubt something we can learn from. But equally important is what we tell children about themselves as they grow – how much effort we take to build their self-esteem.

It is not too late for adults, either. There is much we can do for one another through frequent affirmation of strengths and talents—looking for beauty rather than faults, finding the “treasure” in one another. In so doing, we will not only expand our boundaries, but also those of others.

First, we must come to think highly of ourselves. A beginning step can be taken in noting and identifying all the negative messages we have been telling ourselves. Second, make an assessment of what is good and gifted about our personhood. Third, to begin listening to what God’s Word says about us, taking steps to believe it by replacing our negatives with Truth. In time, feelings of competence, worth and significance will increase, for our feelings follow our thoughts.

One psychologist claims that all personal problems are rooted in lack of self-love. Yet, as long as we entertain self-deprecating dictums allowed to play on and on in our heads, it is hardly possible to love ourselves.

Jesus said, “I came to testify to the truth.”  We are commissioned to follow His example. But wouldn’t it be a good idea to find out the truth about ourselves first?  All we have to lose are those unseen barriers made up of feelings of being powerless, inadequate, and of possessing limited ability.

Then, as Jesus said, the truth will set you free.

“Now, this is entirely off the subject,” she said (clever woman that she was), “but a few weeks ago I was looking forward to taking Pola to the dog show in Richmond.  First, I was hoping I would get the weekend off so we could go. Next, I was hoping lots of dogs would be present, making the event a major competition. Then, I hoped a certain handler would be there to show her. And, two days before we were to leave, Pola got pneumonia and I was hoping she would live.”

How intense we are about our daily incidentals, when, in truth, in just a few moments life can slip crazily out of kilter and leave us hanging by a mere thread. This is a sure way for priorities to be set straight, suddenly, and it’s obviously humbling.

This has been the pattern of my life. Everything goes fairly smooth for a period of time, then “oops,” some downtime for a medical emergency.  I have come to think of it as living on the ragged edge, a bit dangerous place to walk, but, oh, the view.

Birthdays become something more than celebrations, taking on nebulous auras, something like holiness. Little things, like shiny green beetles found on a hillside path, rain drops, and everyday moments don’t simply plod, plop and prod. Instead, they dance in the awareness of their “thereness.”

Strange how going without food for a few days promptly accentuates its importance. And, full appreciation for the hidden workings of the magnificent machine we call “car” springs forth when it no longer works to carry us about. These are times when the four-lettered word “body” gets vigorous attention.

King David of ancient Israel must have had a similar experience as we are all familiar with his eloquent prayer:

“You have searched me, Lord, and You know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; You perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; You are familiar with all my ways . . . For You created my inmost being;

You knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise You because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from You when I was made in the secret place, when I was woven together in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in Your book before one of them came to be. How precious to me are Your thoughts, God! How vast is the sum of them!” (Psalms. 139:13-17).

Funny little creatures we are, doing much as we please to our bodies, often failing to give them what they need. But let them break down or simply fail us in the smallest way, and we become indignantly alarmed, frustrated, angry, maybe even sullen.  A sign of pride?

Imagine being made of the dust of the earth, yet described as being “a little lower than the angels . . . crowned with glory and honor” (Psalm 8:5). And what a crown, that human brain. Our plans, ideas and imaginings can give us quite a high. Yet how humbling is the truth that in the twinkling of an eye we can be called forth into eternal reality for a little chat with God – no cars, clothes or cash to lean on. Naked, this little hunk of dust.

Humbling as this line of thought might be, let us balance it by remembering that what we do here on earth can and does hold importance. We are significant beings, called and chosen. The short time we have here brings forth either blessings or cursings.

To quote Robert Penn Warren, author of “All the King’s Men, “It all depends on what we do with the dirt.”

Two appaloosa colts ran about ever so carefree in my father’s pasture. They were beautiful and Dad seemed to have done a good job with them. I recall, here, what my father said back then, while still alive and working in his corral:

“You know those colts of mine?  While watching them the other day, I realized the relationship between my belonging to God and those horses belonging to me.

“I am responsible for those horses. I bought them, paid for them. Put them in my pasture. I irrigate that pasture, bring in hay, mend the fences, and meet all their needs. And, I know if I am going to use those horses, I will have to train them. ”

Dad said, “This is the way it is with God. He has bought us with the blood of His Son, Jesus Christ.  Now, if we truly trust in His redemption—act as if we belong to Him, obey His commands—He will take care of our every need. He will even be able to prepare us for His use.”

The conversation with Dad was relevant to the circumstances in Gary’s and my life at that time. Gary had just lost his job. After working as a ticket agent for Greyhound since age 18 for 26 years. He lost his job, along with all Greyhound station employees; the Boise terminal became a commissioned agency.  

Gary was designated as the commissioned agent to operate the terminal going forward. I helped with a few light duties; so the two of us worked arduously during the following seven weeks. However, after 26 years with Greyhound, Gary decided 12-16 hour days seven days a week was too much.

We could not envision living our lives that way, so we paid our bills, said our “goodbyes” and closed the book on Greyhound. At age 44, Gary began doing the college scene “with a six-pack of Geritol.” For the next four years he was a fulltime student at Boise State University studying in the field of radiology.

Having a paycheck all those years was a bit addicting. And, while grappling with readjusting, I remembered Dad’s words, “If we really belong to God—I mean really belong to Him, and are giving Him what He paid for—we are His responsibility and not our own.”

Psalm 91 speaks of dwelling in a place of trust, “abiding in the shelter of the Almighty,” a place of total dependence on a Master who provides and protects. These are words we have read often, yet can be more readily embraced and understood once our will becomes aligned with the will of our Master. It is like when the gate is down . . . work done . . . and whistling is heard. New pastures become known.

We are creatures of comfort and unless God allows some pressure to be applied we do not grow. Unlike the ponies in Dad’s pasture, we are made in the likeness and image of God, called and chosen, charted for a course to become the mature children of God spoken of in John 1:12.

About the time we settle in, thinking we have gained some ground, our faith is tested and often found wanting.

The Apostle Paul described believers as being changed, “From glory to glory,” through the trials of life. We become more patient, more humble and malleable. As we turn our angst and uncertainty over to Him, our Heavenly Father turns it all to gain. We are trusted; chosen for training and equipping—soon to serve others.

He is looking for our total trust. Otherwise, why would this be the most repeated command of Scripture, “Do not be afraid,” and the most frequent promise, “I will be with you”?

Father, help me to really trust you. Teach me Your ways. Grant me the grace to follow Your will rather than to jump fences, kick up my heels and go my own willful way.

 “We need to tighten the belt, here.” Belt? His words bring to mind the fact I have gained a few pounds—and I need to buy a new pair of jeans.

Always a writer, the following thoughts, recorded back then, were found today in my jammed-packed files:

“Making money stretch seems impossible. The car suddenly needs repairs, a wisdom tooth decides to raise its ugly head, and an insurance premium is due.  It feels like the bills rule, here. 

“I just yelled at my teenager for leaving the front door wide open, cooling the entire house. Dollar signs are seen in red. Then, when asked to drive nine miles out of my way to take a kid home who had stayed overnight, the needle on the gas gauge seems 10 foot tall.

“Good Friday finds me less than in a prayerful mood. Discouragement has come to spend the day. It’s best I stop everything, read some Scriptures and pray. But now, to pick up the phone to stop the ringing.

“It’s my friend, reminding me of this being Good Friday.

 ‘Listen to this,’ she says,’ I found three Scripture for starting this amazing day.’ (She sleeps late.)

“I didn’t hear the second passage or the third, as the first verse struck a bullseye: “The wages of sin are death, but the free gift of God is eternal life.” Yes, everything seems to cost. Expenses do win, sometimes, when push comes to shove. But here, in one short verse I see the Truth. The greatest of all gifts a believer ever receives is the gift of eternal life—and it’s free! Given without a single fee—and tax free! There, simply to be cherished and received.”

Yes. This day we call “Good Friday,” allows us to once again rejoice in what Jesus, our Lord, has done for us. His destiny was known to Him. In a brutal process of being questioned and “tried,” Jesus was given the opportunity to defend Himself before Herod Antipater, ruler of Galilee, and then by Pilate, procurator of Judea. With both, Jesus chose not to protect Himself. He knew by laying down His life for us He would become our Redeemer.

All who ask for forgiveness from sin receive His merciful touch on our lives. Restoration, lasting peace, joy and righteous living result.

Jesus said to look at the way the birds are cared for and to observe how beautifully the flowers are clothed. He promised to provide for us as we learn to trust. Sometimes, I think He looks at me and says, “Hey, you of little faith….” But, there is a smile on His face. Love is felt. When I truly seek to comprehend—it is God’s Holy Spirit living within. Following His lead will see every genuine need is met.

It is easy to become so filled with the temporal—what’s going on every day of our lives—that we cannot “see the Divine.” Yes, there will always be bills, maybe more than can be paid. But fear, frustration and anxiety need not rob us of the peace intended, once we realize how loved we are.

Surely all the little creature comforts and all the things I think are needed will continue to take their hits, but God help me to remember all that is free: sunshine’s warmth . . . a child’s smile .. . a good night’s sleep . . . the love of another . . . my very heartbeat. But the best is yet to come. Eternal life. All because one Good Friday, many lifetimes ago Jesus embraced the pain, the sorrow, the desolation and chose the cross. All because of us—and what we really need: peace and joy in the truth that the Lord Jesus has done so much for us. Undoubtedly, He is going to bring us through!  

Many things spoke of the Power and Presence of God. The hardness of marble altars, stone floors and wooden pews spoke of strength. Then I looked at the people. They were soft. Vessels of earthen clay, yet filled with spirit.

Many shy away from being called “soft.” But the softness I saw was holy. That which makes us vulnerable, malleable and capable of love.

Back home this truth was clearly seen when I visited the home of friends who had just lost their 24-year-old son in death. Neighbors, family and friends from their parish came, some with arms loaded with food. Many offered prayers from caring hearts. And as they left each carried away a piece of the pain. So much pain to be borne there in that home. Yet the grieving family knew through the people that they would not be bearing this alone. The softness of human love was leaving its impact, as love in action extends strength.

At times like this we often feel inept. Words may seem inadequate. But what we do have to give is enough. That is empathy, wrapped in flesh. When we are weak, then we are strong. The Apostle Paul exhibited that throughout the letters he left for believers who would follow “the way,” which Christ revealed to him.

When we see a fellow human hurting, something incredible occurs. There is an urging within to stop—set aside what we are doing—and go. “Be there.” It is love in action, coming from the treasure of one’s heart. Tears convey release, as solace is received.  Such “holy water” grants clear vision that this love, as it flows from others, is a healing force.

We all endure grievous trials during this life? 1 Peter 1:7, portrays how it is through these hardships that our faith comes forth “much more precious than gold that is tested by fire.” So, there is a refinement process and if we yield ourselves to it, enrichment results. And, God is praised.

While alongside my friends, I saw no anger or resentment. No bitterness spouted, although these dear people had lost another son a mere 13 months before. God is their ally, not their foe. And because of this, peace reigns in their home. Philippians 4:7, refers to this as “a peace of God which passes all understanding that guards our hearts through Christ Jesus.”

So here we are as humans, ideally all “soft covers”—no “hardbacks.” Fragile, destined for much wear and tear. Yet durable beyond comprehension. Filled with strength, having quite enough to share.

People. Earth’s richest resource. Vessels deemed worthy by God to carry His love. A love experienced most vividly when seen flowing from one to another. Oh, holy ones of God, we belong to each other.

Thank God for our hearts of flesh, capable of expanding, stretching, growing—even at the risk of breaking. Yet it is in the breaking that we are formed afresh. As Christ’s body, broken in the Eucharist and given away for the nourishment of many, we live on loving life and one another. The “breakings” do come, challenging our souls and in the end, what is remembered is that faith does hold strong when we depend on the power of the Spirit. This is what makes us more than flesh . . . And able to live forever.

Carol explored various religions, yet said, “None fit the bill for me.”  She liked believing only in what she could solidly see, touch, taste and smell . . . along with what she felt in her heart.  So I simply shared the journey with her, offering prayer at points, which she did not oppose. For sure, praying helped me, in my determining to “walk alongside” my friend on this, her last journey.

Carol loved books and had great interest in researching topics, one of which was cuneiform writing. Discussing these helped occupy her dexterous mind. Pain was present.

We talked on many topics of interest, fairly often agreeing with one another. Disagreements came and went, but failed to slow us down. Carol was “rich”—not monetarily, for sure, but in depth of soul. Much time has passed, yet, I still remember her laughter.

As the end of her days grew closer, Carol showed me the gown in which she wanted to be buried.  She was a grand and beloved person, attending closely to the things in life that triggered her interests. The story of Carol’s last days on earth was published in our hometown daily newspaper, the Idaho Statesman, in Boise, ID. It carried the words of her family members, the hospice staff and mine, revealing how death can be when everyone pulls together while reckoning with the ins and outs of dying.

I was with Carol often those days before her death, even on the evening she left us. She knew acceptance was the key to moving through it. I recall being worried, though, as she decided being an atheist best described what she felt.

Weeks before her leave-taking I gave a note to Carol while sitting at her bedside. It read:

“My dear friend, tuck this away for when you are too curious and must read.

Just in case. Would you please say this little prayer to God?

“God, if there is a heaven and Jesus’ words are true, ‘I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father, except through me,’ would You please be there when I die and take me to your home in heaven?

“If I am wrong in not believing and you are there for me—I want to know you, love you and join my friends who have believed. If this comes to be, please have mercy on me and take me in. I just don’t have what it takes to believe. Perhaps you can yet bring it to be?”

Carol read the note immediately, then looked up with a big smile on her face, saying, “Oh, Joy, I have already done that!”

The laugh was on me; but today, I savor that moment.

At a viewing of Carol’s body, I sat alone in the room. Something unusual was felt. It was as if a golden glow filled the room. I thought of concerns that plagued after that last night with Carol . . . now wondering, was I as helpful to her as I could have been? Knowing the Scriptures well, did I share passages with her that could assure her that she would make it to heaven? Was I right in inwardly rejoicing over her response of “having covered that?”

Sometimes our surmising, when heartfelt, are all the guidance we need while seeking to discern something. Still, there were moments while sitting in that room with her body, during which I questioned, “Did I do enough for her?”

It is true, always within grief we experience some elements of guilt.

Many years have passed. Today, I think of the things I learned through relating with Carol. Sometimes relationships don’t end well. And, there, too, we meet with self-doubt.

And how do we work our way through self-doubt? By giving it room, deciding what’s true, and learning what we can from it.

Inside the cover of The Interlinear Bible Hebrew, Greek, English, with which she gifted me, Carol wrote, “Joy, Hope you enjoy this Book. I found your friendship very refreshing. Keep making good choices. Lots of love, Carol. Thank you.”

Within the golden glow sensed I held the essence of Carol and our friendship. My spirit was quickened by a Scripture passage, “Be still and know that I am God.” What a blessing it is to believe God takes us right  where we are. God’s love for us is grand—and knowing this is glorious!

Difficult times come to all of us. Notice how differently you feel after reading the short passages I have typed below. It is like entering a “different space.” There is a reason for that.

Please enter a comment below if you would like my thoughts as to why this is so. Also enter there a desire for prayer, if you like. I will see it the same day–and will begin to pray for you. There is no charge for any of my ministry efforts. All are free.

I have found how God can lift and comfort us. Sharing what helps and heals is now what my life is all about. See what you think after reading these passages:

Matthew 11:28-29 – Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.

Isaiah 1:18 – Come now, let us argue it out says the Lord: though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be like snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall become like wool. If you are willing and obedient, you shall eat the good of the land, but if you refuse and rebel . . . [well, let’s just say “things won’t go so well.”]

Psalms 23: 1-6 – The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters.

He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death; I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.

You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; My cup runs over.

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

Revelations 3:20 – Listen! I am standing at the door, knocking; if you hear my voice and open the door, I will come in to you and eat with you, and you with me.

John 3:16 – For God so loved the world that he gave His only Son so that everyone who believes in Him may not perish but may have eternal life.

Isaiah 26:3 – Those of steadfast mind you keep in peace-in peace because they trust in you. Trust in the Lord forever, for in the Lord God you have an everlasting rock.

2 Timothy 1:7 –  …  for God has not given the spirit of cowardice, but rather a spirit of power and of love and of self-discipline.

Jeremiah 29:11 – For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future and a hope.

Psalms 91:1 – You who live in the shelter of the Most High, who abide in the shadow of the Almighty, will say of the Lord, my refuge and my fortress; my God, in whom I trust.”

Psalms 1:1 – Happy are those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or take the path that sinners tread, or sit in the seat of the scoffers; but their delight is in the law of the Lord.

Romans 8:1 – There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ our Lord!

Romans 8:28 – We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to His purpose.

John 14:1-3 – Do not let your hearts be troubled. Believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house there are many dwelling places. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, so that where I am, there you may be also.

Psalms 37:4 – Take delight in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart.

If alarmed or unsure–having difficult thoughts–please do not hesitate to ask for prayer below, or call a pastor, priest or rabbi. These leaders can help you. Or, call a trusted friend who also prays. God our Creator is with us and He alone can heal our souls, quieting our concerns and fears. God made us and has a plan for our lives. 

Please feel free to request prayer, if desired, by entering a comment below.

An exasperating experience happened last week while working with an offshore tech about a software problem. Upon calling for help, the cue was looping; I couldn’t get a person. Then upon reaching one, he could not find my account. Forty-five minutes had passed!

People talk about “losing their religion. “Rankled, in the moment, I lost my perspective. Words like “d_ _ and h_ _ _,” were trying to surface. Yikes! I never swear! Now, my temper became the bigger concern. When I asked the Lord, “Help me understand what is behind this anger,” an old memory arose. Funny how early-life happenings can come vividly alive affecting a current situation.

What happened to trigger my anger and produce my energized tongue needed attention? But, first it was important to follow the advice I so frequently give to others: “Honor your emotions and identify old messages derived from wounds of the past—that can still affect your life.” Yes. There it was. The old memory had engrained a message. And, it was that message while working with the off-shore tech that forcefully came alive, “They didn’t care enough!” So, I am back to the drawing board for more inner work.

Once we get a taste of the freedom that comes with healing our emotional wounds, we are more inclined to invest time for dealing with difficult emotions and forgiving the past. Joyfulness results, springing up from the soul. 

The truth is this: We can’t reach our max in wholeness by putting a lid on our difficult feelings. Why? Because doing so also finds us capping off most of our joy as well. Ideally, we reckon with feelings that are difficult to handle, versus pushing those down deep inside. What a great pleasure it is to work through the pain and begin to praise God for all the goodness in our lives. Soon, more and more excitement, enthusiasm, gladness, and peace of heart are present. These are the keys to living a life of emotional freedom. We can live on “the celebration side.”  Voile!

Through the ages, wisdom has flowed to humanity. Socrates once said, “Know thyself.”  He knew well that “the life which is unexamined is not worth living.” Then, William Shakespeare wrote, “To thine own self be true.” These writers urge us to examine our hearts. King David’s words, after he looked within, are common to my own. He cried out, “Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me,” (Psalms 51:10). The greatest of all wisdom comes to play when, after examining, we align our lives with what God wants of us. With God’s help, our hearts are made clean, and we are back on the ”solid ground” of righteous living wherein we respect ourselves, enjoy others, and abide within God’s intentions.

If we, as believers, can’t rejoice, but instead live and act as if life on earth is a trial to be endured—we are not living in truth. This world is only a brief part of eternal existence. Actually, we are just passing through. Life here, presents us with an opportunity to learn how to become more and more deeply involved with the Lord, our Creator. It is within this wonderful privilege that we hear God’s call and find how best we can develop our gifts and meaningfully serve the needs of our families and others.

Jesus talked much about joy, even as He neared the shadow of the cross. And, for sure, there is joy in the presence of the Lord. We can feel that joy and that Presence while reading Scripture. Within those pages, the character and wondrous nature of God shows up. We see that our Creator wants the best for us. We are meant to enjoy our lives and this beautiful earth.

Joy comes when we capture some of the essence of what God and His goodness is about. The Bible says us to, “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!  Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things” (Phil 4:4-7).

Contrary to what some people believe regarding a Christian’s life, God doesn’t limit our potential and possibilities. Rather, God vastly expands them.

We cannot avoid thinking about death as the numbers of those who die from the COVID virus are astounding. This fact prevails as we read the newspaper, or view the news. People are fearful—and this is not good. A study of muscle testing (kinesiology) suggests our muscular system is weakened when we know something is wrong for us, or we face a threat. It may be possible our immune systems are also weakened as we begin to realize the truth, “I could catch this Covid thing—I could die from it.” Could it be that we are less likely to become sick with the virus if we conquer the fear of it?

It is possible to make friends with death and come to live with the truth that death is part of life. It is said, “None of us get out of here alive.” (True, in a temporal sense.) One of the greatest mysteries of all is that we are here on earth for a short time and that none of us know how long we will have. This is the very factor that makes life so precious.

Embracing death, learning to accept it as a friend can make a huge difference with our quality of life. If we know it’s “there for us” as friend, not a foe, we are more apt to have peace and take care not to bring it on early. This is simply a matter of not doing something stupid, like racing a car or motorcycle at excessive miles per hour . . . or, driving while intoxicated. Of course, there are many other ways in which we can bring on death before it needs to come. Life is precious.

For twenty of my early years, I had a hard time staying alive until a surgery, a vena cava filter, was invented near my 35^th birthday. This was a miracle for me as it stopped blood clots flowing from my legs and abdomen into my heart and lungs. Now, my living long astounds me . . . when there is time to think about it.

How I made friends with death was through journaling, a practice that kept my mind on what I truly wanted to happen while here on earth, with God’s help. The Bible became my daily guide, allowing me to become more “spiritually minded.” Prayer flows easily and often.

Death became my friend by making it a part of how I live my life. Perpetually grateful for being alive, I celebrate life by giving thanks to God for the opportunities to help others on their journeys. One of the greatest of all blessings for a chaplain is to be there for individuals as they manage their fears in life and as they face death.

As regards handling the difficult emotions of fearing one’s end-of-life, it does no good to deny the fact that it will come. Dealing with that fear of it, honestly and squarely, takes a trust in God’s provision of everlasting life. Jesus came to be with us in order to provide our eternal future with Him. This world is our pilgrim-place. We will truly be alive in the “ever-after” once we are at home with God who created us. Meanwhile,” to be spiritual minded is life and peace,” (Romans 8:6.)

One of the good things that can come out of this pandemic is that most of us are living at a slower pace. Another, is that we see more clearly our temporal state. These factors prepare us better for “making the best of it,” while here. We can determine what we want to achieve in life, then get to the job of making it happen. Just be ready. Read the Bible daily. (Suggestion: start with the book of John, alongside the ministry of a pastor.)

Keeping one’s heart in God’s truth brings wonderful peace and comfort. “Always ready” becomes the best possible motto for life, while here on terra firma. What awaits will be glorious, beyond what we can imagine.