Those of us of in our advanced years are experiencing the death of friends and loved ones. Just recently, I discovered that a gentleman with whom I worked has passed away. He was the superintendent on the first pipeline construction project on which I worked. When I was assigned to other projects, we lost touch, but his death brought back many memories.

Of all the people with whom I was in close contact on projects in Europe and the Middle East, some of whom became our friends, only one is still alive. I call him on occasion. The last time when we talked, at the year's end, we recalled the people whom we both knew, and he mentioned again that there is no one left to talk to; they have all passed away. I remember my colleagues so well: their families, the visits that we had, and the good discussions, both personal and professional. I also recall the fine Christian people whom we met at the different churches that we attended. I am really nostalgic about that time, so long ago.

Similarly, judging from the letters that Paul wrote while he was in jail in Rome, he was thinking about so many of the people that he had met over the years in the churches that he had planted. He knew that his end was near, and he wanted to be in touch with them and give them advice.

Philippians 4:2-3 – I implore Euodia and I implore Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord. And I urge you also, true companion, help these women who labored with me in the gospel, with Clement also, and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the Book of Life. (NKJV)

If Paul had not written those letters, those people would not have known that Paul was thinking about them. Do we have people whom we remember — people who were so important in our lives that we remember them and the difference that they made in life — and do we miss them as well? If they are still alive, we should be in touch with them.

Conversely, we may not realize at the time when we are instrumental in certain things happening or events taking place that are important in making a difference in the lives of people who know and remember us. For example, when we introduce someone to Jesus as their Saviour and Lord, we may not know just how that person's life becomes different, or whomever else they may in turn lead to Christ. However, it is not the case that we will never know! When those who know Christ get to heaven, all such details will be revealed, and we will know how everything worked together for good. What a great revelation to look forward to!

Prayer: Our Father in heaven, we thank You for all the people whom we have met in our lives, what they came to mean to us, and what we have meant to them. We thank You in Jesus' name. Amen.

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About the author:

Joel Jongkind <austria67@bmts.com>
Meaford, Ontario, Canada
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