Today, my parents left to return home after a week-long visit. As I sit here this rainy Saturday morning, it strikes me that time marches on, always. Every day that has passed is gone.

Years ago, my parents had visits like this from their parents. Today, my father’s parents are “no longer with us,” one of the ways polite society indicates a person has died. I know this hurts him, because I see it in his eyes. I don’t look forward to the day when I have taken his place as the man who has hurt in his eyes.

Today, I go to the funeral of a man who lived 88 years. His last few were spent in confusion as his body and mind wore down from the effects of sin in the world. He was a man who loved his wife, served in his church and loved God. Today, he is with God in heaven. No more suffering, no more tears.

The teacher in Ecclesiastes reminds us that there is more to be learned from the house of mourning than the house of laughter. This truth is made more evident at each funeral I attend or officiate. When faced with the frailty of humanity and the reality of death, we all take stock of our lives. Is what I’m doing important? Will it matter in 10 years? 50? 100? In eternity?

As my parents drive home, I pray they have a safe trip. I hope I get to see them more than I do. I’m thankful for cell phones and the Internet keeping communication frequent. But I’m reminded of the passage in 1 Corinthians 13:12: “For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I have been fully known.” Sometimes family is far away and we don’t get to see them often. Our eternal family is not visible to us and it’s hard; but the day is coming when we will.

What are you doing that matters for eternity? Do you look forward to seeing God face to face? Does your life demonstrate that to all who see you live?

Today, I choose to live for God. To love my wife, my kids, my parents, my family, my friends and even those who don’t like me. Today, I want to be the person God has put me on earth to be. Today, I want to love Him more than I love me.