Dad’s Birth Into Eternity

Dad’s Birth Into Eternity

I know the LORD is always with me. I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me. No wonder my heart is glad, and I rejoice. My body rests in safety. Psalm 16:8-9

The family had gathered in my father’s hospital room. Mom was there, along with my sister and brother, my wife, Karen, and three of our four kids. Mom was quiet. I reached for her hand and took it in mine.

“Dad’s not dying,” I said. “He’s getting ready to be born into another world.” I reminded her that when babies are born into this world, they do so kicking and screaming. But believers, who know where they are going, are peacefully born into the next world. Mom smiled at the thought.

“Look around,” I said, pointing at my siblings. “When the doctor first saw the tops of our heads, he said, ‘The baby is crowning.’”

She nodded.

“Now we’re witnessing Dad’s crowning into heaven. A crown will be placed on his head as he is delivered into eternity.”

“I like the thought of that,” Mom said.

Dad was resting, and the family was talking quietly when my sister spoke up and said, “Can we sing for Dad?”

Someone started singing a hymn, and the rest of us joined in. We sang through all the classic hymns that Dad liked. The kids harmonized when they knew the tune and improvised when they didn’t know the words. The musically challenged adults, like me, did our best to follow along. It became a sacred celebration, and Dad was the guest of honor, not a patient who was about to die.

When Dad’s breathing became more erratic and labored, we all placed our hands on him to let him know we were there. As we sang a final song, Dad took his last breath on earth and was born into the next world. As the last bit of life left his body, I felt the warmth of his spirit drain away and a fresh breeze waft into the room. When his spirit passed my cheek, it felt light and youthful, as if he had traded his old body for one more vibrant than ever.

The tears we shed that afternoon were tears of joy as we celebrated Dad’s birth into heaven.^a

TODAY’S RX

Our final breath on earth will be our first breath in heaven as we inhale the sweet atmosphere of eternity.

You are a God of peace, Father. Thank you for your gentle presence and comforting embrace. I look forward to the day when I am welcomed home.