A Future Promise

Twenty years ago today, I had the privilege of officiating Aaron and Brianna’s wedding. Two weeks ago, Brianna lost her life in a tragic car accident. Once again, I was humbled as the family asked me to be a part of her funeral service.

I shared a message from Psalm 23; it was a simple word of hope and comfort. And then I let Brianna speak to those gathered. You see, last April, Brianna had come to a point in her life that she wanted some things to change, specifically in her faith and relationship with Christ. With her established artistic flair, she started a journal. With the family’s permission, I read that entry to the congregation. And again with the family’s permission, I share it with you today. Listen to her words, written just four months before her death.

Another attempt at a journal except this time it’s not just for me, but for my soul and the Lord. I have discovered after my 40 years on this planet living my life that I have obviously been doing something wrong – I’ve been living for myself, not for God. I now know (and cannot and will not fight it any longer) that without living for and with God I will never realize my full potential, be given any blessings, or allow myself to have the relationships I want to have with not only the Lord but with my husband , my children, my grandson and my friends. Only a relationship with and living for the Lord will I be able to give my family the kind of love and attention they need. I also need the Lord’s help to strengthen my relationship with my mother and sister. I want to connect with them both on a deeper level. I want to be able to pray for and comfort my mother through her illness and I need the Lord’s help to do that. I need to show and lead by example for my entire family. This life we live now is not permanent and I want to know that I did all I could in this life to bring my loved ones with me to eternal life. Don’t get it twisted. I’m just starting this journey. I’m no expert, just a knowledge seeker and truth seeker. The road before me is long and hard and filled with pain but I firmly believe all of this will be worth it in the END! So I’m documenting this as my testimony to show others if I (a sinner) can do it then anyone can do it. Your past is just that, your past. In the pages of this book is my future with the Lord!

After sharing her thoughts, I believe that the consensus in the room was that Brianna had delivered the better sermon that day. And I would agree. Listen to those significant words again. “This life we live now is not permanent . . .” The harsh reality of that sentence challenge us in our everyday living. Consider the reason she shares. ". . . to bring my loved ones with me to eternal life.' Such truth, shared in such a sad, tragic, and poignant moment, encourage us to look beyond the moment, and ponder how we might share in that eternal promise, a ‘future with the Lord!’

Measure Twice! DLB