She had been having health problems for several years and the doctors finally decided to do exploratory surgery. Her children and some of the grandchildren were able to visit her at home before she went into the hospital for surgery. Little did we know that it would be our last meal with her because her heart stopped during surgery but the doctors were able to get it going again. She only lived a few more days but during that time all the family was able to say their final goodbyes. That experience with my mother reminded me of something in the Bible. We are on this earth for only a short time and our days are numbered, (Job 14:5, Psalm 144:4). God knows how many days or how long we will be here. Death is not pretty and enjoyable but we are all destined for it, (Psalm 89:48). It is not pleasant when we see our friends and loved ones facing death but it is a part of life. Physical death is the sentence or penalty mankind received for disobedience, (Genesis 3:19, John 19:30, Hebrews 4:12, 1 Thessalonians 5:23). But death is not the end; there is a life after death. We are also spirit and that lives forever, (1 Corinthians 15:42-44). Yes, we miss our loved one but there is the hope we will be united with them one day. Christ Jesus made that possible, (John 3:16,1 Peter 2:24). See you in Church next Sunday.