It has been something of an unbelievable week this week...
On Wednesday night four of my friends were in a terrible car accident. So on the day my Dad celebrated his 60th year on earth, Annie Clague celebrated her last day. Nobody will be able to fathom God's plans for our lives but at the same time, no one can out do the immeasurable grace He hands out to help everyone cope with a situation such as this. Now she see's Him face to face; earlier than imagined, but no less gloriously amazing. I have found reading her blog and her Pastor's blog really helpful recently when trying to get my head around it all (www.angharadspot.blogspot.com / www.simonbenham.com)
With a weekend away to follow an already turbulent week, I found myself being challenged in a new way, now that I had the death of a 19-year old on my heart as well.
How much do I love this Jesus of mine? And I mean REALLY love Him? Am I going to be willing to share His story even during the hard times too? Well, this week has been totally life changing for many people very close to me, and now I am learning more than ever that it's time to get really ready for life. No more short-sightedness. No more tainted dreams. No more time wasted watching re-runs of 90's sitcoms. Because, as the old saying goes: If you want to see something you've never seen before, you've got to start doing things you've never done before.
It has taken the death of someone I have only known for 10 months to really open my eyes to how precious this 'one chance' life is. I have seen countless facebook profiles detailing countless emotions. Those who knew her would speak of their grief but also the joy that she has made it to Heaven. Those who didn't know her, remarking on new iPhone 4's, bangin' hangovers or perhaps how fantastic that week in Malaga was.
To quote John Eldredge: 'We'd much rather be included in something truly grand than to have to create the meaning of our lives.' Annie see's that more than ever. And I am all the more richer now, when I consider that what she truly lived for was not died for without reward.
I'll see you when I get there mate.
