Facing death with fear or faith?

BLC Blessing

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Ashes

Dear ,

Growing up as a child of a dentist, I remember a saying that was displayed in my dad's office - something about three things in life that are certain: death, taxes, and plaque formation. It was a humorous reminder that we all face certain things in our lives. I was but a child and gave little thought to death and taxes... plaque formation, that was a real threat!

The first death I clearly remember experiencing was when I had just finished 7th grade. A family friend had just finished 8th grade when he was riding a motorcycle one evening. A pickup turned in front of him, and was killed in the crash. Our families had been planning to see Kansas and Styx in concert that summer, and Dust in the Wind was played at his funeral.

While Dust in the Wind certainly has truth, even truth rooted in the scriptures, it doesn't sing the wonderful promises that help me to face death with less fear. There are so many powerful promises from Jesus and the witness of scripture that speak peace to our fears. One of my favorites is a promise proclaimed by Paul that's a part of the graveside liturgy in the old green hymnal.

For we are not our own masters when we live or when we die. While we live, we live to please the Lord. And when we die, we go to be with the Lord. So in life and in death, we belong to the Lord. Christ died and rose again for this very purpose, so that he might be Lord of those who are alive and of those who have died. (Romans 14:7-9 New Living Translation 1st Ed.)

This particular translation speaks powerfully to me, reminding me that "we are not our own masters" and that "we belong to the Lord."

This week in our Fearless series, we are exploring how we face death. Do we face death with fear, or with faith?

Beloved , this day and every day, remember you belong to the Lord. Nothing can separate you from the love of God in Christ Jesus... not even death.

Gratefully held in God's promises with you,

Pastor Jeff

P.S. What promises of the faith help you to face death with less fear? I'd love to hear your thoughts, and welcome your reflections.

Talking about Facing Death with Faith

Conversations with loved ones about faith, life and death can be awkward. Yet these caring conversations can be a huge blessing to all involved - both as we live our lives and as we walk through the valley of the shadow of death. We have prepared a brochure to help guide conversation and gather your thoughts in preparation for planning your funeral. You may get a copy here.

Might God Be Calling You?

Bethlehem Lutheran Church has the following Position Openings:

Preschool Director/Teacher for the 2012-2013 School Year
Preschool Assistants
Christian Education Ministry Assistant
Coordinator of Children's Music
Part-Time Custodian

For more information including complete position descriptions and employment applications, visit our website at www.bethlehemaberdeen.org/PositionOpenings.html or stop by the church office.

RADIO BROADCASTS AND BULLETIN SPONSORSHIPS for 2012 are still available. This is a great way to remember those who have gone before and to honor those who are with us. The radio broadcast also allows those who are unable to attend church to listen to our broadcast on KGIM 1420 AM each Sunday. In order to continue this ministry, we need your support. The cost of a radio broadcast is $125. The cost of a Wednesday bulletin sponsorship is $55 and the weekend bulletins are $75 (or sponsor a whole week of bulletins for $125). Website sponsorships are also available at $100 per month.

Please contact the church office at 225-9740 or email

office@bethlehemaberdeen.org for more information.

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