A few nights ago I watched the movie "Gladiator." It was just as delightful as I remember, but this time around I noticed a few things that I had not seen before. The protagonist of the story is talking with his friend on a rooftop about his murdered wife and son. They talk about how they will see their families once again, but they end the conversation by saying, "But not yet, not yet."
This can be a very significant concept for us. We may very well miss those who have passed on before us, but we cannot forget that we still have a purpose to fulfill now. Grief is a healthy and natural part of loss, even grief that lasts for an extended period. However, we have been given a promise that should bring about two distinct reactions within us.
Philippians 1:6 says that "...He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus" (NASB). Our first reaction is that this should spur us to action. So much of our (my) lifes are devoted to serving our own (my own) interests. This is folly! We (I) absolutely must understand that this is HIS work, and not our own (my own). Everything we (I) do should be for the glory of God.
The second reaction we should have is one of encouragement. The Lord promises to complete, or "perfect" the work that is in us. This effectively removes any and every doubt that we might have about the potential success of our actions. Now, success may look a little different than what we expect, but nevertheless we can be confident that this success is not reliant upon us. Rather, the sovereign God has promised to fulfill His purpose. This can spur us on even more as we consider the opportunity that we have before us to participate in His work.
Another line from the movie states that "What we do in life echoes in eternity." While in context this is referring to honor found in battle, the concept may be applicable to us as well. We can have an impact one someone's life that truly has eternal implications.
On a personal note, my father passed away when I was 13 years of age. I know that because he and I both believe that Christ paid for our sins, I will see him again one day.
But not yet.
Not yet.
