RIP?

Rest in Peace. A phrase I've heard often and seem to be hearing more frequently. This phrase has always seemed odd and impersonal to me but I have said it many times despite the images of grave yards and Halloween that it evokes in my mind.

Most people living in America have heard this phrase before and have most likely said it or written it in a sympathy card or in a Facebook status memorializing a lost loved one. It is just one of those things you do.

Many Christians say this phrase a lot as well...and as a Christian, and one who enjoys questioning things like this, I started thinking about death and what that means for me as a believer.

Paul says in Philippians that 'to live is Christ, and to die is gain.' Why in the world would I want someone to wish me rest after I die? I won't be resting, I will be praising God in heaven with all the saints who have gone before me and will come after.

I understand when people say "May you rest in His loving arms," but it really leaves me with an uneasy feelings. When I imagine eternity, I don't imagine resting...I imagine eternally worshiping the Lord and being in His holy presence.

Maybe that looks like resting...who knows...but I think that it will look like singing and dancing and falling on my face before the most Holy God and being in perfect community and fellowship with the saints.

So when I die...and I know I will one day...don't wish me rest, don't stand around crying, or spend your days wishing I were here on earth with you (because who would want to live without me?? yes, that is sarcastic...) Instead, celebrate with me, praise with me, and dance with me in spirit. Praise the Lord for his grace and mercy and goodness and never ending, perfect love.

I would never want my death to be a time of sadness...because for me, to die is gain!!

P.T.L. (Praise The Lord)