I just found out that, Larry Lawton, a regular commenter on my blog, passed away this Sunday. He was a close blogging acquaintance and online friend. He frequently commented over at Sharper Iron.
He leaves behind a wife and young son (2 years old, or so, I think). His obituary is here. From this Sharper Iron discussion, I learned he died of an infection coupled with his having no spleen. He was just 37 years old.
I know Larry loved Jesus and loved studying the Bible. He was a good father and cared for his family, even as he pursued theological education. He will be missed.
Larry’s death reminds us that our time is short. It also calls us to face the realities of life and death. It argues that we should all live with eternity in view, as we have no sure bet that we will be here tomorrow, next week or next year.
Recently, my oldest daughter, has been learning about death. Her friends’ grandfather died a few weeks ago, and then on Saturday we attended the funeral of her great grandmother. She’s been growing through all of this and her simple faith is encouraging. As we drove away from the funeral, Saturday, she made up a song, and the words go something like this:
When someone dies, I won’t be afraid.
I won’t worry. I won’t be sad, I’ll be happy.
I’ll just trust in God.
In the face of death — and I can only imagine how hard this must be for Larry’s wife and family — we all can do no better than follow the advice of my daughter’s song. Since Larry knew Christ, let’s not worry or fear, let’s trust in our God!
That’s very sad, but thankfully we know where Mr. Lawton is right now, and your daughter’s faith is very challenging for myself, and others I’m sure.
Thanks, Ricky.
Oh, how this should inspire us to live Kingdom-busy, gospel-saturated, Christ-centered lives, so that after this momentary vapor of life, we might hear those blessed words, “Well done good and faithful servant”! Let’s look through the fleeting and deceptive pleasures and securities of this world, and bank on something eternal and unchangeable!
Amen!