The Great Equalizer



Every so often, it taps us on the shoulder. We are startled and shaken, and left to wonder.......again.  


Sometimes, it isn't so gentle, and blindsides us with a sucker punch to the gut.  

But, there is no mistaking it.


We avoid the topic at all costs. We wish we didn't have to talk about it, or think about it. But we can't help it, because as humans it is, and remains, one of those mysteries of life that cannot be fully understood.


It defies all boundaries of race, wealth, demographic. It is not reserved for the old or necessarily terminal. We can be certain of it; we just don't know the time.


Another dear friend has passed. Today he will be buried, along with plenty of unfulfilled hopes and dreams. One day building a vacation home, next day planning a golf game.

And he is gone. Retired early by some measures, and anxious to enjoy the coming years in relaxation, comfort, and celebration. Gone.


Can we rationalize this, or do we just shake our head and "way too soon." So unfair.


How do we rationalize the mystery of a seemingly healthy 20 year old student, who complains from flu symptoms, and now weeks later endures chemotherapy treatments? Or another close friend who one day has the fitness of a fine tuned athlete, and the next day clings to life on a respirator while a bacteria grips his spine and brain?



Earlier this year, I attended the funeral of a former prominent business man in my city. He was hailed as a hero, and a champion, and a father, a mentor, and pioneer. It was a special service, and despite the sorrow of a lost friend and loved one, it was a celebration of "a full life, well lived." This one wasn't so hard, because we can rationalize it.....get our heads wrapped around it, and remember we all will have it coming some day.


I spent that particular experience in reflection. On the family. The widow. The community. The attendees. The officiant. And I honestly couldn't help but be filled with gratitude. After all, there is something powerful and wonderful about a Christian funeral. The minister reminds us in a sincere and powerful way that his death did not mean the end for this friend. And that we can all have a hope of victory over the grave.  


Anyone listening had no choice but to confront their own mortality. We couldn't avoid it or dismiss ourselves. The great equalizer tapped us on the shoulder and reminded us that our day is coming. We know not the time nor the hour. 


My wife an I sat in our living room, just a few weeks ago, watching a funeral on YouTube. A 27 year old man, in the prime of his life, struck down. And one of the most admirable families I have ever met was in mourning. I urge anyone reading this to find the time to watch this video, because I know the Korver family posted it for a reason, and I am so grateful for their testimony. (www.youtube.com/The Memorial Service of Kirk Korver)



Amidst the bombardment this year so far, I am particularly grateful today for faith. I simply don't know where I would be without it. Hollow, lonely, bewildered and frightened, perhaps. Feelings that might dissipate over time, until the next wake up call comes knocking.


My message here is to treat each day as sacred, my friends. Grab hold of everything you can today. Be "in" Today, and not in the past, and not daydreaming about the future. We are trading one day of our life for today, so how will we spend it? How will I spend it?



Life is good. 
Life is hard. 
Life is cruel. 
Life is what you make it. 
Life is short. 


This great mystery that has transcended generations and cultures and geography and sophistication remains the key question. Is there more?


I say there is. Absolutely there is. Many hundreds upon hundreds of millions share that as truth. Many wonder but are not sure. To this I say, how can anyone be totally sure? This is where faith comes in. We all have a choice to lean into a blessed assurance, if we choose.


And if anyone is in doubt of their destiny, I invite you to explore it, with me, or someone else. But please explore it. The clock is ticking. What if we pause, and utter those words no one wants to say or hear:


Who's next?


May God bless friends lost today, and others like them, who will not taste from this life again. May we see each other again, in that place where there is no darkness, no mourning, no sorrow or shame, no pain, no tears, no suffering or disease, no fear or hatred.


Until then, may we (may I) live in expectancy. INHim.






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