PSALMS 116:15

"Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints." Psalms 116:15  

Have you ever experienced the final dying process of a friend or relative?  It can be a special experience, and it is humbling.   Certainly, a natural, progressive death is better to be a part of than a traumatic one.  You get to "say your good-byes" and anything else you might need to express.  You may get a chance to make some arrangements.   

 We have a good friend who is in the final process of dying. He has been ill for more than a year.  Most likely he will be gone in a day or two.  The illness (ALS/Lou Gehrigs Disease) is fatal - no treatment is available.  We have watched the progression of the disease in his body;  Everyone knew this time was certain.   While it is hard, it is also unique to observe the process.     Our daughter in law, Lindsay is expecting our third grand-baby in May. They've know the fact for just about six months.  The events leading up to a birth are falling into place with each trip to the doctor.  Finally, there will be a struggle, some pain, and a new little person will begin  life on planet earth, loved and nurtured by a waiting family.
Our dying friend, Melvin Rainey, is actually in a birth process because he is a Christian.  He is also in the process of entering a new world, Heaven.  He will be eternally with God the Father and Jesus the Son.  He is experiencing pain and struggle. People around are anxious, constantly checking, wanting to help.  Just as we see progress and change in Lindsay's body, we also see change in Melvin's body.  Both are miraculous, mysterious events to be cherished. 
Just as we have experienced birth we will also experience death;  when and how is the only unanswered question.   Whether it's a new baby boy or a death, preparation is essential!Wishing you blessed assurance, Dorothy