Upon Your Death

I hope that when you die, your family and friends are not mocked and scolded for mourning.

I hope that when you die, the people at your graveside are not relentlessly reminded of your sins (there will be many). I hope the list of your mistakes and shortcomings gets buried right alongside you. 

I hope that when you die, no one responds to your obituary by writing a letter to the editor outlining all the beliefs you held that they disagreed with.

I hope that when you die, no one says, “Good riddance.” 

I hope that when you die, there is no dancing or digital confetti. I hope your enemies nod, solemnly, and at the very least, acknowledge the loss of a worthy adversary. 

I hope that when you die, no one walks up to your grieving family and angrily asks, “Why are you crying?? MY sister died last month, and you didn’t cry!”

I hope that when you die, no one lies about you, and certainly, that they do not publish those lies.

I hope that when you die, people remember the good things you did (there will be many). I hope they remember your smile and every ounce of love you poured into your family. I hope they remember the times you gave back to your community, encouraged those around you, and stood strong and brave, even when it was scary. 

I hope that when you die, it’s because you naturally came to the end of a long, fruitful, and fulfilling life. If your time is cut short by an evil act, I hope your family can pursue justice without contempt.

Most of all, I hope that when you die, you are welcomed into the loving arms of our Lord, Jesus Christ, because you did your best to live out God’s purpose for your life while you were here on Earth. Because you took up your cross and followed Him, striving to embody the principles outlined in His Word. Because you told the truth, cherished life, repented of your sin, and loved the Lord God with all of your heart, soul, and mind.