When my dad was called to be with the Lord in October of 2024, the realness of Heaven and the magnitude of eternity became more apparent to me than ever before. His death was a painful yet hope-filled reminder that the things of this earth are transient — lasting only for a short time, temporary. I was reminded of two things: 1) How quickly the things of the earth can pass away, and 2) That while we are on earth, God has called us to set our eyes on eternal things.
God began to help me loosen my tight grip on the seen things (even good gifts) and pushed me to start seeking how I could live my life in light of eternity. For me, that meant asking myself if I was giving my heart, time, and focus to things that further His Kingdom.
With eternity pressed into my brain, God has helped me grow in shifting my focus away from seeking comfort in earthly blessings and being preoccupied with self-centered, worldly goals — the seen things. I now look to the unseen by striving to prioritize sharing the Gospel, investing in and serving others, and giving glory to God through my choices.
Losing my father resulted in the deepest grief I have experienced on earth. Yet, I am grateful that God has worked through this painful experience to draw me closer to Him and remind me of an eternal vision.