In Memory of...

Joe Chan died today at 3PM after a car thief rammed into his car.
He interned as a pastor at my church. I had spoken with him only a couple of times. Though I did not know him well, it was easily seen in his attitude and sermons that he was a man charged with a passion for God. His life was not cut short. It ended at the proper time. Despite many struggles, he did not live a life that was lacking. His life was rich and abundant in the blessings that come of a personal relationship with God.
The car thief, on the other hand, lives. But how has he lived and how will he choose to live hereonafter? He has lived a life of thievery; seeking after worldly goods; trying to sustain himself with temporal possessions. He now faces jail-time.
Was it fair in this incident, like many others, that the criminal lives while the innocent die? What do you see of this? I see that Joe lived a full life and will inherit the eternal. The criminal is left with a further chance to decide which route he will take.

For me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. (Philippians 1:21)

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, that the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day, and not only to me, but also to all those who have longed for his appearing. (2 Timothy 4:7-8)

May Joe's story be known to others to reflect upon what he lived for and what they live for, and may we ourselves not forget, that we might continually be reminded and encouraged.

But you, brothers, are not in darkness so that this day should surprise you like a thief. (1 Thessalonians 5:4)

Are you ready to die?