KyleGoen.com

Over the last few days I have been thinking about the brevity of life and how quickly life can change. Last week my family had the opportunity to see old friends in Florida and remember things that happened 15 years ago as we were growing up together. Never mind the fact that we were 24 & 25 and they were 14 & 15 at the time. We spent time laughing, sharing how God had changed us and molded us into what he desired. We were introduced to husbands, wives, and children that we had never met before and realized again that “there is a time for every season under heaven” as the writer of Ecclesiastes tells us in the Old Testament.

Prior to being in Florida I talked with a man who was about to undergo open heart surgery and facing uncertain days. The anxiety of the unknown and the concern for how the loved ones were affected was evident. He has since had a tremendous recovery and is making strides each day. But, the conversation caused me to think about my own heart and how would I hear the conversation if I were on the other end of the phone listening.

While in Florida we received the news that a twelve year old girl in our son’s class had passed away suddenly. I am thankful she knew Jesus, quite well I might add. She was healthy, vibrant, athletic and unaware that her days were numbered as they were. As I sat through her funeral service and listened to twelve year old kids remember their friend and adults speak words encouraging words concerning this young lady I was struck with the keen awareness that my life is also moving to a culmination point.  Now, this is not a surprise to me as someone who walks with people in times of hurting.  I will tell you though the thought was driven home with force during that one hour period of time.

Last evening or should I say early this morning I received a phone call from a very troubled and hurting young soul who was calling “one last person.”  We talked briefly. I was able to get enough information to let this person know I was calling the police so protection and help could intervene. The next few hours were long with several phones calls and searches.

I guess the events of the last week or so have reminded me of the importance of living for the Glory of God and an audience of one. I have been reminded that I must seek to make my life count for His name and live well, by God’s strength and the Spirit’s indwelling. Because one day, sooner than I realize, I too, will leave this earth. I hope that when God chooses to call me into His presence I will be able to die in a manner that honors Him the most.

In the mean time though “…I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed, and I am convinced that he is able to guard until that Day what has been entrusted to me.” 2Tim. 1:12

Phil. 1:6 -And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you (me) will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.