Many thoughts go through my head as I sit here looking out the window. The night is clear and I can see the lights of towns and cities dotting the otherwise dark landscape. I'm not sure where I am but I know my plane will be landing in Tampa, Florida within the hour.

   It will then be approximately an hour's drive to my grandparents' house, and by that time it will be midnight. Tomorrow morning at 6:00 a.m. my grandfather is scheduled for a triple bypass surgery. The doctors are very positive about the outcome but in my mind this is still very serious.

   There was a time when I thought 85 was old. I'm about to turn 30 and already I'm beginning to realize how short and fragile our lives are.

   My grandfather sounded good on the phone and was positive about the outcome. He said, "I've put it in the Lord's hands, what else can I do?" My grandfather isn't a perfect man; none of us are, but he is a man who loves Jesus. He is confident that his reward is waiting for him in heaven. It is my prayer and expectation that by the time you are reading this, my grandfather will be on the road to recovery. But, if my grandfather never wakes up from this operation, will it be all that bad? Sure it will be hard for Grandma and the rest of his friends and family. My eyes have filled with tears thinking about it. But knowing the reward that is waiting for my grandfather I can't help but pray, come soon Lord Jesus.

   I hate sin as I see the effects of aging on members of my family. I hate sin as I see its effects on me.

   Regardless of what happens to my grandfather, I know someday he will be given a new body in heaven.

   How about you? What does your future hold? I want my grandfather to live but I am comforted knowing that he is ready to meet Jesus. Are you ready?

(This article was written on November 1st, 2006. My grandfather is still alive today.)